Frederic Mabileau

Frédéric and Nathalie Mabileau are a husband and wife team who spend a huge amount of time and energy maintaining their vineyards, which are situated just north of the river Loire. They are firm believers in hand-harvesting and in organic farming methods. Pale ruby in colour, this Cabernet Franc displays varietal aromas of red cherry and raspberry alongside a subtle leafiness on the nose. On the palate, the concentration of these red fruit flavours really comes through, joined by sweet red pepper and all perfectly balanced by a fresh acidity and gravelly minerality. Drink now to 2020.
Adam Bruntlett, Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd This comes from a vineyard with sandy gravel soils in the westernmost sector of the St Nicolas de Bourgueil appellation. This is the one cuvée for which Frédéric retains a proportion of the stems. It’s then raised for four months in stainless steel tanks, to emphasise its bright, lifted aromas of red berry and black pepper. There’s real tension to the palate, and fine, grippy tannins, which will have you reaching for a plate of charcuterie. Drink now to 2022.
Will Heslop, Burgundy Buying Assistant (spring 2019)