Frédéric Mabileau - Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil Les Coutures 2021

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Frédéric Mabileau was one of the Loire Valley's most iconic figures. He tragically passed away on Monday, August 31, in a microlight accident. In 2003, with the help of his son, he took over the entire 27 hectares of the family estate and introduced organic farming methods. Two types of soil predominate here: clay-siliceous soils with a tendency towards limestone, which produce the most intense and structured wines, and lower down, on the terrace overlooking the former bed of the Loire, siliceous, sandy or stony soils, known as "gravel," on which the vines flourish, producing a more fruity and indulgent wine. The Saint-Nicolas wines on sale embody the delicacy of the appellation's wines: the seams on gravel and clayey silt have a full but silky texture, with well-defined tannins and a frank fruitiness. The Rouillières wines seduce with their juiciness and a very floral finish. For around €15, Bourgueil Racines has a clay-gravel terroir that produces one of the most complete wines in its appellation. Chenin-des-Rouillères shows the charming side of the grape variety without sacrificing any of its character. It is now accompanied by Chenin-du-Puy, in Saumurois, in the same spirit. This is one of the priorities in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil!

Guide Hachette des vins

About wine:

This vintage benefited from long maceration, which gives the wines a silky texture. This was certainly the impression of the tasters, who were charmed by the elegance and suppleness of this energetic Saint-Nicolas, bursting with fruity flavors (cherry, black fruit), with woody notes and mellow tannins providing support. "Straightforward and unpretentious," sums up the jury. (Le Guide Hachette des vins 2025)

About the estate:

A leading figure in Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas since he settled there in 1991, Frédéric Mabileau built up a 35-hectare estate that has been organic since 2007 and biodynamic since 2012. Following his accidental death in 2020, his son, Remy, took over. Charly, his other son, has opened Chez Odette, a restaurant dedicated to local and seasonal cuisine, in the estate's courtyard.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About wine:

Grown on clay-limestone soils, the 2021 Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil Les Coutures exudes aromas of dark wild berries, licorice, herbs, and green pepper, followed by a medium-bodied, round, supple, deep, and layered palate, enhanced by powdery tannins and a concentrated, succulent fruit core. It will reward patience.

Jancis Robinson

About wine:

Mellow, easy-drinking, full of fresh, vibrant raspberries. Leafy notes, beautiful purity. A real pleasure to drink young.