ON THE LIST | Shilun Zhang
Shilun Zhang gained a bachelor’s degree in Viticulture and Enology at the University of Florence before moving to France, where he gained a Master’s in Management (MiM) and MSc in wine management at the Burgundy School of Business. From there he moved to London to join 67 as a junior sommelier, and recently passed his Certified Sommelier exam. He is known to most of his colleagues as Milo – an Italian name he gave himself when studying in Tuscany, ‘because no one could pronounce my name there’
'My journey into the world of wine began in the beautiful Chianti Classico region of Tuscany, where I was seduced by the elegance of Sangiovese. My passion for wine then led me to Burgundy, where I immersed myself in the subtle complexity of Pinot Noir.
'As you might be able to guess, I love wines that boast subtlety and finesse. Recently, I've enjoyed discovering what makes Cabernet Franc so special. Often overshadowed by its more famous offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, Franc possesses a distinct charm and versatility that I find compelling. Much more than a blending component in the great wines of Right Bank Bordeaux, SuperTuscans or Californian ‘Meritage’ wines, Cab Franc has the potential to shine on its own, as proven by the iconic Château Cheval Blanc, where it plays a starring role.
'For some more recherché examples on our London list, allow me to direct you to the T23 Lamoreaux Landing bottling, a pure expression of 100% Cab Franc from the Finger Lakes region of New York State – the 2021 vintage is our current pour. Aged in stainless steel via carbonic maceration, this light-bodied Franc shows pure, bright fruit, with subtle smokiness and notes of dried herbs that are distinctive to the variety.
'If you’re after something more serious, the 2016 Clos Nouveau Bourgueil from Domaine du Bel Air is a classic Loire Valley rendering but in a relatively ripe, full-bodied, concentrated style, with fascinating intensity and impressive length. Equally charming is the 2018 Detert Family Vineyards Cabernet Franc from Oakville in Napa Valley, which shows a remarkable combination of finesse, silky texture and a lush bouquet of cigar, baking cocoa and tobacco.
'Do seek them out next time you’re in the Club – because trust me, Cab Franc is worthy of a greater stage than just a supporting role…'
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