Wines of the week: July 13

This week, I’m drinking: Cabernet Franc

I went to a wedding recently where they didn’t serve any red wine. The bride and groom don’t drink it and, I suppose, couldn’t imagine that guests would want any. I have similar feelings about baked beans and never serve them when cooking a full English breakfast. Still, it’s a shame, as there are some reds that are ideally suited to a summer’s day; for example Beaujolais, New Zealand Pinot Noir and, perhaps my favourite, Loire Cabernet Franc. There’s no red so refreshing when served chilled. It might even convert the red wine sceptics.

Saumur Rouge Les Nivières, £7.99, Waitrose

For me the trademark of Loire Cab Franc is a mouth-cleansing freshness that reminds me of licking a slate. I’m not sure why I think this as I have never licked a slate, but try it and you’ll see what I mean. This one combines the slatey taste with ripe blackcurrants.

Château du Petit Thouars Rosé, £7.50, Heaton Wines: www.mywinemerchant.co.uk

A rosé, yes, but nearly a red wine: there’s some tannin, body and real complexity here. About as far from a Provençal rosé as you can get. It has the unmistakable taste of raspberries. Big but elegant, my rosé of the year so far.

Cuvée Réserve Rouge Château du Petit Thouars 2005, Touraine, £10, Heaton Wines

From the same producer as the rosé, this is Cabernet Franc with muscles. It’s oaked, tannic and certainly not for a wedding. Serve it with a Boeuf Bourguignon, which will bring out its fruit perfectly.