Tasting: Champteloup

Name: Champteloup
Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Loire Valley
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $15 (Sale: $7.95)
Shop Review: In the heart of France's Loire River Valley lies the Touraine wine region. Although it produces vast amounts of well-priced, fresh, mostly white wines, lovely reds like this are broadening Touraine's appeal. This wine may seem familiar to you. It is a sibling of the Touraine Sauvignon Blanc we've offered for years. Serge de Bucy employs a light touch in his winemaking, using no wood and doing as little as possible to preserve freshness. Bright cherry and strawberry fruits are followed by a soft, smooth palate.
My Review: Blackberry jam was a strong aroma reflected in this wine. Upon tasting it, it was easy to detect a rich, smokey taste. There were hints of floral tones, but the smokey taste was overpowering - similar to a tobacco taste. This wine was very full-bodied, and it was a bit musty. I didn't like this wine very much.

I tasted this wine on its own without food.