Saumur Champigny, Tuffe,

Since Philippe took over in 1987, the picturesque Château de Hureau has become a yardstick for aspiring Cabernet Franc producers. The wines represent a respect for tradition with a modern twist as they are fermented at controlled temperatures in new steel vats yet oak is strictly forbidden for ageing. Though the winemaker’s deft touch can be faintly noticed in the roundness and silkiness of his wines, Philippe firmly believes that the pure and individual characteristics of grape and terroir should be allowed to sing and not be subdued by the heavy mark of oak. Old vines and heavy pruning during the growing season mean that yields here rarely exceed 35 hl/ha and result in rich, deeply concentrated wines.