OG natural winemaker before it was cool. Olivier only uses a horse named Joker to plow b/c the hooves leave most of the ground untouched - also making natural fertilizer.
Olivier cultivates 12 hectares of vines in and around Martigne Briand, nestled in the western Loire Valley. His vineyards are planted with Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Grolleau and Chenin Blanc. Since 2012 Olivier has passed on the production of Gamay, Grolleau, Chenin Blanc, and Pineau d’aunis to his son Baptiste. Olivier, in semi-retirement now, only works with Cabernet Franc, which was always his favorite grape to vinify.
"Breton" is the local name for Cab Franc. soil is black loam, limestone
funky nose of cheese rind and horse saddle, red apple core, crushed strawberry, Bing cherry, spice & herbs, lifted & complex, invigorating, lighthearted yet profound, medium bodied, no pyrazine notes to be found
region: loire valley, France
varietal: 100% cab franc
style: medium bodied red
farming/cellar: biodynamic (certified Demeter and Nature & Progres), hand harvested, brought to the winery via horse, destemmed, gentle press, extended maceration, spontaneous fermentation, aged in old oak barrels, no fining, filtration, no SO2 added.
pairing: works with herb-encrusted roast chicken, pan-seared duck breast, artisan pork, duck or rabbit paté, cured meats and young or aged mild cheeses on rustic bread.
