La Seigneurie, Mademoiselle, Saumur Rosé

An attractively-presented, mature Loire rosé from 2019

• La Seigneurie, Mademoiselle, Saumur Rosé
• **Shop — La Seigneurie**

A stock-clearance at now-defunct Wines of the Loire led me to buy a bunch of reds, whites and dessert wines with the occasional rosé for a fraction of the list price.

After opening a few bottles, I realised that whatever the reasons were for the company ceasing to trade, it was not due to an inability to source decent wines.

Deciding that a) I liked everything and b) a 75% discount was too good to miss, I went back to hoover up the last few bottles of rosé, which although not my favourite wine style, was all that was left by this point.

If you think that all rosé should be pale, delicate and neutral, check out Liz Gabay MW’s writings on the topic to expand your horizons.

This Loire rosé is darker than a Provence and made from the local Cabernet Franc rather than Mediterranean varieties; it is savoury with none of the aromatic, grapefruit thiols that have become the hallmark, if not cliché, of Provence. At six years old, it is fresh yet structured and, whilst at a peak, is not yet at the end of its drinking window.

Ambitiously listed at £20 on the Wines of the Loire website, it was revealing to discover the cellar door price of €9. For that is what it feels like; a solid effort, albeit very well made, rather than something really special.

They say:

At our winery, we consider wine as a cultural product, it represents part of our know-how, but also this French way of life which we are so attached. We take the time, with a passionate and dynamic team, to work on our wine well before the harvest. Being in organic cultivation, we maintain our vines with the environment in mind first.

The wine of the Seigneurie is an exceptional wine, by its flavors, but also its conservation time and especially by its taste. You are passing through the region, looking for a pleasant moment, we offer you a tasting of our wines , with a surprising view of our vineyards. In a group or alone, our cellar is always open to welcome you and help you discover an exceptional wine.

La Seigneurie, Mademoiselle Saumur, Rosé 2019 (€9 cellar door / £15.99, Wines of The Loire, Absolute Organic Wine)

They say:

Discover the complexity and allure of Mademoiselle La Seigneurie, Saumur Rosé.

This rosé is expertly crafted using organic grapes, resulting in a stunning salmon pink colour with vibrant coloured highlights. The aromas are reminiscent of English candy and palate graced with hints of grenadine, creating a harmonious and enjoyable tasting experience.

Serve chilled between 6°C — 8°C to fully appreciate its character and aromas.

This organic and vegan rosé has the potential to evolve gracefully and provide a delightful experience; a must-try for fruit desserts, fresh melon, and vegan Asian dishes.

I say:

Savoury, saline, mature food-friendly rose

100% Cabernet franc

13.5%

deep salmon pink; cranberry, redcurrant and pastry shop; delicate soft red-berry fruits, cashew, macadamia and leesy, oatmealy complexity with a touch of herbaceous mint. Saline and savoury.

Good.

Drinks nicely on first pouring; opens up with aeration. At a peak but can be cellared further for greater complexity.

Match with savoury dishes, such as salmon en croute, quiche or cold cuts.