Named in reference to the French saying “Ciel Rouge du Matin, Patouille en Chemin,” which translates to “Red Sky in the Morning, Sailor’s Warning,” this phrase signifies that when the sky turns red, a high-pressure weather system has shifted eastward. This indicates that favorable weather conditions have likely ended, and there’s a possibility of a wet and windy low-pressure system approaching.

This wine is a true reflection of the thick red clay-limestone soils, known as “aubuis,” which tend to become heavy and sticky when saturated with rain. Vinification is almost identical to that of Les Enfers Tranquilles, but Ciel Rouge distinguishes itself with more weight and depth while remaining equally crystalline and elegant. The 80-year-old vines in this parcel yield a wine with ripe yellow fruits, honeyed waxy notes, and concentrated minerality, offering balance and great depth. Additionally, it features a more evolved, integrated bitter tannin that lends overall harmony to the wine. Ciel Rouge stands out as one of the very best Chenin Blancs we know of!The 2021 vintage offered a more balanced growing season, described by Autran as “a classic Loire vintage”, yielding a wine that is leaner, muscular, and marked by precise minerality.

We find that the 2021 as having electric acidity, which is incredibly well-balanced with a crystalline finish. With 12,5% it has significantly lower alcohol than most vintages (in warmer years it often ends up with around 14%). Although already drinking beautifully, this vintage still boasts a lot of aging potential while delivering remarkable energy and freshness.