Domaine Augis 'Réserve des Caillouteux' Touraine AOC 2015

Domaine Augis is run by fifth-generation winemaker Philippe and his family has had the same 18ha of vines in Touraine since 1785. Philippe fully took over for his parents in 2002, and the estate cares for côt, sauvignon blanc, cabernet franc, gamay, and pinot noir, all planted in “perruches” or flinty-clay soil. Their vines are located on the southern slopes of the Cher in the town of Meusnes, a once very important location for mining flint during the days of Napoleon Bonaparte. The 'Réserve des Caillouteux' is a 50/50 blend of côt (malbec) and cabernet franc from 25-year-old vines that is fermented with indigenous yeast in stainless steel before being aged for one year in neutral French oak. The profile is dominated by darker fruit like blackberry, but has streaks of roasted green pepper and tarragon with fine, elegant tannins. Organically grown, vegan.