Olga Raffault is a name to remember if you’re a fan of old school, classic Loire valley Cabernet Franc. Indeed, you very likely already know the name, as this estate is famous for spectacularly earthy, functionally immortal Cabernet Franc that sets the standard to which other winemakers in Chinon aspire. Under the direction of Olga’s granddaughter Sylvie and her husband Eric De la Vigerie, the tradition remains strong, and even their elegant and fine-grained rose is unmistakable as anything but Cabernet Franc. In 2023, conditions were hard on winemakers dodging both excess rain and heat, but the Raffault family has been doing this long enough to coax great wine from all sorts of vintages. This 100% Cabernet Franc rose offers aromas of Rainier cherries and white strawberries, tangerine zest, white pepper, acacia blossoms and chalky clay. The palate is surprisingly full for how energetic it is, very soft and lightly creamy, with white strawberry and citrus on the midpalate that turns savory and clay-style earthy on the finish. Serve with grilled birds, shrimp dishes, crudo, and charcuterie spreads.