Pascal Janvier Coteaux du Loir Rouge 'Cuvee du Rosier'

While Janvier is best-known for making stunning Chenin Blancs from the tiny Jasniere's appellation, they also make a tiny bit of red wine from the Loire's native and rare Pineau d'Aunis grape. A challenging grape to grow, many of the vines were ripped in favor of easier grapes, but about 20 years ago, a small cadre of producers realized the grape was about to go extinct. Today, there are only about 1,000 acres planted to the grape, and Janvier is one of the few to make a pure varietal wine.

In the glass, this stuff is juicy and lively, almost like a Pinot Noir crossed with a Gamay. Bright strawberry, tart cherry, and cracked pink peppercorn are all offered up in this low tannin, high acid red that loves to be served slightly chilled.