2023 Domaine Henri Bourgeois Petit Bourgeois Cabernet Franc

Winery Domaine Henri Bourgeois

Domaine Henri Bourgeois is a family business with deep roots in Chavignol, in the heart of the Loire. The tenth generation is now at the helm, and the focus is on producing wines that reflect the terroir as purely as possible. In addition to their renowned Sancerres, the house also produces accessible wines under the IGP Val de Loire. While quality and precision are maintained, the style is immediately drinkable. Sustainability and respect for nature play an increasingly important role in the vineyards and cellar. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

This wine comes from the Val de Loire, a vast wine region with a temperate climate and a clear influence from the River Loire. In this part of the region, warm summer days and relatively cool nights ensure balanced ripening of the grapes. The plots closer to the river, in particular, benefit from the extra warmth, which is essential for Cabernet Franc to ripen fully. In 2023, this resulted in healthy grapes with a beautiful ripe fruit profile and retained freshness, contributing to the accessible and juicy style of this wine.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The wine is made from 100% Cabernet Franc, a grape known in the Loire for its fresh acidity, red fruit notes, and spiciness. For this cuvée, grapes are selected that are suitable for a lighter, fruit-driven style. The vineyards are located in the so-called 'Jardin de la France', where conditions are favorable enough to allow the grapes to ripen optimally. This location results in a wine with sufficient concentration, but without excessive structure or tannins.

Harvest, vinification and aging

After the harvest, the grapes undergo a relatively short fermentation on the skins of approximately eleven days. This was a deliberate choice to preserve the fruit expression and prevent the extraction of harsh tannins. The vinification focuses on softness and accessibility, without excessive use of oak. The emphasis is on preserving the fresh character of Cabernet Franc, with a supple structure and a light mouthfeel. The result is a wine that is ready to drink immediately and is not intended for long-term aging.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine displays a bright, medium cherry-red color. The nose is immediately open and fruity, with aromas of ripe cherries and wild strawberries, complemented by subtle notes of spices and a light hint of currants. On the palate, the wine is supple and juicy, with a light-footed structure typical of this style. The tannins are soft and rounded, keeping the wine accessible without losing its character. At the same time, a slight firmness in the finish provides sufficient grip and balance. The fresh acidity keeps the whole lively and makes the finish refreshing and easy to drink.

Development and drinking window

This Cabernet Franc is meant to be drunk young and is at its best in the first few years after the harvest. The drinking window is roughly between 2025 and 2028. Within this period, the wine retains its fresh fruitiness and supple structure, which are characteristic of this cuvée. Longer aging is possible, but not the primary goal of this wine style.

Summary of professional reviews

For previous vintages, this wine received positive reviews, including 14.5 points from Perswijn and a score of 8.5 from De Grote Hamersma. The wine is appreciated for its smooth, fruity style with ripe red fruit notes, spiciness, and a juicy structure. The focus is on accessibility and balance, with a slight firmness in the finish that provides character. The full review texts can be found in the tab: Professional reviews.

Wine & Food and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.