A serious, shy man, Philippe Alliet is the proprietor of this small domaine in Cravant-les-Côteaux, location of some of the best Cabernet Franc vineyards in the Loire Valley. Considered by many to be one of the finest producers in Chinon, Alliet is part of a new generation of Loire winemakers dedicated to low yields, optimally ripe fruit, and fastidious vineyard management. Inspired by the greats of Bordeaux--a region he visits several times a year--he aims to create wines of similar structure and power. From his 12-hectare domaine, Philippe produces a stunning lineup of 100% Cabernet Franc wines, including Chinons of great purity and balance. His entry-level Chinon is one of the truly great values from the Loire. It exhibits beautifully exuberant fruit and spot-on regional typicity.