Domaine Olga Raffault is one of the benchmark producers of Chinon in France’s Loire Valley, known for traditional, terroir-driven Cabernet Franc.
The estate's new "Le Fraich" Chinon is Cabernet Franc in its purest, most joyful form. Younger vines are grown on the classic alluvial sands and gravelly soils along the Vienne River, a tributary of the Loire. It is here that Cabernet Franc leans into freshness and juiciness over power and structure.
A classic vin de soif, literally "wine of thirst," Raffault's Le Fraich is light, bright, and incredibly easy to drink. Don't take that to mean this is simple though— remember that it's made by one of the top Cabernet Franc producers in the world, and this low-intervention, chillable red is all about precision: think crunchy red currants, wild strawberry, a touch of graphite, and that signature Franc note—fresh-cut herbs with just a flicker of bell pepper.
This is the kind of bottle you open because you want a glass, not because you want to geek out. The bright acidity keeps everything lifted, and the gentle tannins make it absurdly drinkable. Serve it with a slight chill and watch it disappear—this is terroir-driven Cabernet Franc that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
If you like light and low tannin reds like Pinot Noir and Gamay, you need this in your glass tonight!
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
