Domaine Eric Chevalier ‘Chez Cardinal’ Cabernet Franc 2022

Domaine Eric Chevalier “Chez Cardinal” Cabernet Franc 2022 is an expressive, medium‐bodied red wine from the Muscadet region in the Loire Valley, France. Crafted exclusively from Cabernet Franc using organic and vegan practices, it reveals enticing aromas of dark red fruit, subtle pepper, and delicate herbal notes, all underscored by a refined minerality that speaks to its authentic terroir. On the palate, expect balanced tannins, lively acidity, and a persistent, elegant finish that truly reflects its character.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.

Type: Red Wine
Style: Medium‐bodied, Organic, Vegan
Grape Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Tastes Like: Dark red fruits, subtle pepper, delicate herbal notes, and refined minerality
Alcohol Percentage: ~13% (approx.)
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Muscadet
Region: Loire Valley, France
Terroir: Limestone and clay soils imparting a distinctive mineral character
Aging: Crafted to preserve the fresh, fruit-driven expression with minimal intervention
Serving Temperature: 14–16°C – Best served slightly below room temperature

Domaine Eric Chevalier is a family‐owned estate in the Loire Valley dedicated to organic and vegan winemaking practices. With meticulous vineyard management and minimal cellar intervention, the winery produces wines that authentically capture the terroir‐driven character and refined elegance of Cabernet Franc.

Seafood: Lightly grilled white fish or shellfish with a savory tomato and olive salsa.
Poultry: (For non‐vegan options) Roast duck with a berry reduction, or herb‐roasted turkey for a lighter pairing.
Vegetarian: A hearty lentil stew with roasted red peppers or wild mushroom ragout that complements the wine's peppery and herbal notes.
Meat: Lean pork tenderloin with a subtle cherry compote to accentuate its balanced acidity.

Fresh Goat's Cheese: Tangy and vibrant, echoing the wine's bright fruit and herbal nuances.
Vegan Brie: Soft, cashew‐based alternatives that enhance its delicate spice and minerality.
Camembert: Mild and slightly earthy, offering a gentle counterbalance.
Younger Comté: Semi‐hard and nutty, adding a savory depth to the pairing.

Vegan Lentil and Roasted Red Pepper Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium eggplant, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 400g diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C. Toss the cubed eggplant and red bell pepper with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on a baking sheet for 25–30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Meanwhile, in a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the roasted eggplant and red bell pepper, and let the stew simmer for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and serve hot.
7. Enjoy this hearty, vegan stew with a chilled glass of Domaine Eric Chevalier "Chez Cardinal" Cabernet Franc 2022 for a harmonious, terroir‐driven pairing.