Clos Rougeard, a revered estate in the Loire Valley known for its remarkable wines, is experiencing a resurgence under the stewardship of the Bouygues family. This historic producer, which focuses on the indigenous grapes Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, has maintained its reputation for crafting wines that exemplify the best of the region.
Located just outside Saumur in the village of Chacé, Clos Rougeard has a modest annual production of 40,000 to 50,000 bottles, all released after a five to six-year aging process. The estate, once operated by the Foucault family for eight generations, is known for its exceptional terroir and commitment to producing high-quality wines without excessive intervention. It was sold to the Bouygues family in 2017, who have since revitalized the estate while honoring its traditional practices.
Cyril Chirouze, the winery’s new estate manager, emphasizes a philosophy that respects the unique characteristics of the land. His approach includes minimal intervention in the vineyard, using primarily organic practices and only moderate applications of copper and sulfur. With vineyards spread across different sites, Clos Rougeard exhibits a range of flavors attributed to its varied terroirs, which encompass clay, limestone, and sandy soils.
In terms of wine production, the estate produces three red wines from Cabernet Franc and one white wine from Chenin Blanc. Each red wine is site-specific, with the two main flagship wines—Le Bourg and Les Poyeux—displaying distinct profiles owing to their differing soil compositions and aging processes. The red wines are known for their elegance and concentration, with Le Bourg typically showcasing a more robust structure, while Les Poyeux tends to be silkiy and aromatic.
The 2019 vintage, which is now entering the market, has gained acclaim for its balance and precision, showcasing the estate’s old-vine vineyards. The Bouygues family intends to preserve the estate’s modest range and vineyard practices, ensuring that Clos Rougeard continues to serve as a benchmark for the wines of the Loire Valley.
For aficionados who appreciate wines that reflect their origins, Clos Rougeard under the Bouygues family’s care stands poised to further establish its legacy of excellence within the exquisite tapestry of French winemaking.