Saumur Champigny Domaine des Roches Neuves 2021

The Saumur Champigny Domaine des Roches Neuves is a red wine that originates in the heart of France, in the splendid region of the Loire Valley. It is a label crafted exclusively from Cabernet Franc, the most widely cultivated red grape variety in the Saumur area, where it has thrived for centuries thanks to the well-suited terrain and a climate conducive to its maturation needs. The brief ageing in wood allows one to

appreciate the elegant aromatic spectrum of Cabernet Franc in all its classic varietal typicity.
This Saumur-Champigny comes to life in the territory of Varrains, home to the ancient Domaine des Roches Neuves, whose origins date back to the mid-19th century. The Saumur area is particularly suited for viticulture due to the presence of limestone-rich soils and tuffs, as well as a climate moderated by the influence of the Loire River, which acts as a natural temperature regulator. Cabernet Franc has found a second home here. While in Bordeaux, it is generally used in smaller proportions in wines based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, here it takes on the role of the undisputed protagonist, with interesting pure varietal vinifications. The grapes are hand-harvested, and fermentation occurs at controlled temperatures using only indigenous yeasts. The wine matures for 4 months in steel tanks and oak vats before being bottled.

The Saumur Champigny wine allows one to discover the genuine and sincere expression of a great grape variety like Cabernet Franc. The oldest among the Bordeaux varieties, likely originating from the border area with the Basque Country, and the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère. The colour is intense and brilliant ruby red. The olfactory profile opens with aromas of blueberries, currants, small wild berries, hints of medicinal herbs, and balsamic nuances. On the palate, it is elegant, with a sip of good aromatic richness, supported by a well-integrated tannic texture, and characterized by a finish of clear mineral freshness.