In the glass
Aroma: red plum, raspberry, violet, fresh tobacco
Palate: red cherry, soft tannin, saline mineral, savoury herb finish
The estate's gateway Saumur-Champigny, named for the tuffeau stone that defines the appellation. Mid-weight, juicy Cabernet Franc from sand-and-gravel parcels, vinified for early drinking.
What it pairs with
-
Rillettes de Tours on toast
Pork rillettes and Saumur Cabernet Franc are a regional staple. -
Roast chicken with shallots
Chicken and the wine's herbal-tobacco lift align. -
Sainte-Maure de Touraine
Local goat cheese and the wine's saline finish align.
History
Tuffe is the estate's gateway Saumur-Champigny, named for the tuffeau (limestone) of the appellation. Drawn from younger sand-and-gravel terrace parcels, vinified for early drinking.
- 1996 — Tuffe gateway cuvee first bottled
Facts
- Producer
- Chateau du Hureau
- Grapes
- Cabernet Franc (100%)
- Classification
- Saumur-Champigny AOC
- Oak
- 10 to 12 months in tank and seasoned oak, no new oak
- ABV
- 12.5%
- Price
- EUR 16 to 24 at retail
- Drinking window
- 3 to 10 from vintage
- First vintage
- 1996
- Organic
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED
- Vegan
- Yes (no animal-derived fining)
Scores
- Vinous 89 (2020 vintage, reviewed 2022)
Frequently asked about Tuffe
What does Tuffe taste like?
Red plum, raspberry, violet and fresh tobacco on the nose; red cherry, soft tannin, saline mineral and a savoury herb finish on the palate. Medium-bodied with medium tannins and high acidity.
When should I drink Tuffe?
Drink between 3 and 10 years from vintage, lightly chilled to 14 to 15C in summer.
What food pairs with Tuffe?
Rillettes de Tours on toast, roast chicken with shallots, and Sainte-Maure de Touraine are all strong matches.
Is Tuffe vegan?
Yes. The Vatan family works without animal-derived fining agents on the estate's red cuvees.