Pierre Borel

Simplicity is key here - Pierre makes only one wine, and seeks to vinify in as straightforward a way as possible. The sandy gravel soils yield fragrant fruit which is fermented in a simple chai (basically a shed) that comprises one large tank of stainless steel and one of fibreglass. The wine is racked off the skins after a couple of weeks and is bottled from tank, with no barrel ageing. Pierre’s wine is honest, understated and everything we love about Cabernet Franc from this part of France.

About the Winemaker

Pierre Borel

Simplicity is key here - Pierre makes only one wine, and seeks to vinify in as straightforward a way as possible. The sandy gravel soils yield fragrant fruit which is fermented in a simple chai (basically a shed) that comprises one large tank of stainless steel and one of fibreglass. The wine is racked off the skins after a couple of weeks and is bottled from tank, with no barrel ageing. Pierre’s wine is honest, understated and everything we love about Cabernet Franc from this part of France.

The Region

Bourgueil, France

Bourgueil, located in the heart of the Loire Valley in France, is renowned for its production of elegant and expressive natural wines. Situated along the banks of the Loire River, Bourgueil benefits from a unique terroir characterized by limestone and gravel soils, as well as a continental climate with maritime influences. Natural winemakers in Bourgueil prioritize organic and biodynamic farming methods, cultivating the indigenous Cabernet Franc grape with minimal intervention. By eschewing chemical additives and focusing on natural fermentation, they produce wines that reflect the region's terroir and the pure expression of the grape. Bourgueil's natural wines are known for their finesse, complexity, and vibrant fruit flavors, with Cabernet Franc offering notes of red currant, raspberry, and subtle herbal nuances. As the demand for authentic and terroir-driven wines continues to rise, Bourgueil remains a beacon of quality and innovation in the world of natural winemaking, offering a taste of the Loire Valley's rich heritage and commitment to sustainable viticulture with every bottle.