2019 Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley
A$47.47
Availability:
Out of stock
SKU
B19241V19
100% Cabernet Franc. Biodynamic.
Germain’s entry-point Saumur-Champigny is drawn from the Domaine’s younger Cabernet Franc vines, which grow on the tuffeau/limestone soils around the communes of Varrains, Chaintres and Saumur. The vines range in age from five to 70 years (with the average sitting around 25 years old) and include some parcels ploughed by Germain’s Ardennais draft horses, Ben and Comtesse. Harvesting is by hand, a cold soak infusion is employed on some parcels, and the wild yeast fermentation and élevage are now carried out only in tank. Aside from a minor 10 ppm SO2 at bottling, this is raised without any additions at all.
This cuvée has found another gear of late and we don’t think there has been a better introduction to this Domaine’s wines—or the joys of Saumur-Champigny in general. 2019 is a killer—darker and plumper than Les Roches, it is svelte yet refreshing, with silky black cherry and blackberry fruit to go with freshly cracked black pepper, white and yellow rose, and scents of black tea and crushed rock. Succulent graphite tannins, mouth-watering acid and a stony mineral finish add to the allure. Charcuterie sold separately.
The aromatics are very pretty, filled with vibrant summer fruits with a touch of rich black cherry. It feels so pretty on the palate too, fresh and bright, the dark fruits wrapped up with a floral perfume, classically Cabernet, all combined with moderately grained tannins and fresh acidity. You won’t get many domaine cuvées that can beat this.
91-93 points Chris Kissack winedoctor.com
| Product/Service Sold Out | Yes |
|---|---|
| En Primeur | No |
| New Arrivals | No |
| Wine Type | Red Wine |
| Wine Style | Biodynamic |
| Country | France |
| Region | Middle Loire, Saumur |
| Varietals | Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage | 2019 |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Wine Points | 91-93 |
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