James Petit 2010 Bourgueil Rose

The Man... James Petit's vines are located east of the town of Bourgueil in the fertile central Loire Valley of France, west of the Touraine district. He learned his craft from Jean Gambier, the well-respected president of the local grower’s association, who happens to be Petit's uncle.

The Land... The fruit for this bottling comes from south-facing fields that slope down to the river. The sandy soils of these sites provide good drainage, and are key to the wine's distinct aromatics. When farming in the relatively cool Loire Valley, it is crucial to plant on south-facing hills if one wishes to gather sufficient radiant heat and finish the season with ripe grapes. This isn't the driest part of France (that would be Alsace) so soil that allows for adequate drainage is important. It's a familiar story.