HISTORY OF DOMAINE: Domaine de la Petite Mairie is owned and managed by Corinne and James Petit, an enthusiastic couple devoted to their little corner of the Loire Valley and its wines so celebrated by Rabelais. They have an uncompromising vision of the expression of the Cabernet Franc grape married to the unique terroir of Bourgeuil. This vision is learned, in part, from the long time master (and president of the syndicate of growers) of this appellation, Jean Gambier, who is M. Petit's uncle. The Gambier ­ Petit collaboration is more than just familial as it is M. Petit who works with M. Gambier to tend the vineyards and make the wine that originates from the property held for several generations by the Gambier family. Now that M. Gambier has officially "retired", M. Petit capably fills the role of successor.

COMPOSITION OF DOMAINE: This small estate owns vineyards around "Les Galluches" just east of the village of Bourgeuil. The different parcels are located on the gentle slopes facing the Loire river to the south; some parcels are located in the neighboring village of Ingrandes. Over the centuries, the river has etched out a wide arc leaving behind a swath of sandy gravel and exposing chalk terraces higher up. The limestone pebbles and sandy soil provide excellent drainage and are ideal sites for vine growth. The southerly exposure gives the Cabernet Franc grapes the sun and warmth necessary to fully ripen in this northerly region. The cuvée "Les Galluches" is made from a blend of grapes harvested from different parcels, a majority of which are of sandy composition thus yielding a wine of intense aromatics and subtle tannins. The "Cuvée Ronsard" is made from a single vineyard situated on deeper gravels surrounding the Gambier compound that give the wine a more masculine mien, structured yet regal.

METHOD OF VINIFICATION: James Petit follows traditional vinification techniques. The fermentation and maceration period last for approximately 15 days. The cuvée "Les Galluches" is aged in oak "foudres" or large casks for 4 to 6 months, then racked into cuve for several more months before bottling. The "Cuvée Ronsard" receives additional ageing in small oak barrels for 6 to 9 months before bottling. Both wines are made from 100% Cabernet Franc. Although quite fine and charming in their youth, these wines will surprise in their tenacity and their remarkable ability to age and reveal additional elements of their respective personalities.