Mathieu Bouchet, who is the producer of Domaine de Château Gaillard, is one ardent Biodynamie believer. He is the son of François Bouchet, who is one of the most influential Biodynamie consultants within France. François Bouchet counts Domaine Leroy and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti as two of his clients. Like his father, Mathieu Bouchet strictly follows the practice of Biodynamic viticulture. In addition to the above practices, Mr. Bouchet maintains low yields within his vineyards which are only 5 hectare (12.5 acres) in size. For this superior Saumur, approximately 2,000 cases of the 2002 vintage were produced. Of the small production, only 100 cases were imported into the United States.

For all his labor, Mr. Bouchet has produced the best Saumur I have ever tasted. Medium ruby in color, Gaillard’s Saumur is filled with expressive tart cherry, red currant and candied cola spices as well as leather notes. On the palate, an attack of Cabernet Franc acidity is followed by soft tannins. Many Loire Valley Cabernet Francs are a stalky green on the nose and palate. Not Gaillard’s Saumur. Not only is this Saumur tasty, but the weight and acidity level of Cabernet Franc make this wine a perfect everyday food and summer wine. Domaine de Château Gaillard’s Saumur can span the food spectrum from salads and chilled soups to grilled vegetables and meats. Enjoy this great Saumur and taste the bounty of the Biodynamic world. Enjoy!

—Scott