Wines from Saumur-Champigny

The region of Saumur-Champigny consists of 8 separate communes that lie within the Saumur region, all of which are red wine only appellations. The principle grape is the dark-skinned Cabernet Franc, and the soil is mainly clay, schist and limestone. The style of wine is medium to full bodied, showing bright dark fruits, cassis, cherry and the particular 'capsicum' character of Cabernet Franc - quite herbal and savoury. Yields are a little lower at 57hl/ha, and most communes hand pick.