Thierry Germain - Domaine des Roches Neuves : L'Echelier 2022

Characteristics and tasting notes for the Saumur-Champigny "L'Echelier" 2022 by Thierry Germain - Domaine des Roches Neuves

Tasting

Colour
With beautiful intensity, the wine displays a deep red colour.

Palate
This wine stands out for its remarkable chalky minerality, extending towards a finish of crystalline purity.

The mineral and authentic expression of a great Loire wine

The estate

Founded in 1850 by the Duveau family, the estate is located in Varrains, at the heart of the Loire wine region. Acquired in 1991, Thierry Germain - Domaine des Roches Neuves now spans a 28-hectare vineyard divided into 61 plots. A pioneer of biodynamics since 2004, the estate is currently run by Thierry Germain, now supported by his children Louis and Jeanne. The domaine stands out for its respectful approach towards living organisms, favouring ecological balance and the authentic expression of its terroirs.

The vineyard

This wine from the Saumur-Champigny appellation comes from the Clos de l'Échelier, a historic 2.5-hectare plot enclosed by 300-year-old stone walls. The vines, averaging 40 years old in 2022, are planted at a high density of around 6,500 vines per hectare. The terroir consists of clay-limestone soils, with a 30-centimetre layer of sand resting on a bedrock of Upper Turonian limestone. Biodiversity is preserved here thanks to the presence of old cherry and oak trees within the vineyard.

Winemaking and aging

For the "L'Echelier" 2022 cuvée, winemaking favours minimal intervention. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats or large wooden foudres. Extended maceration periods are favoured in order to extract matter while avoiding aggressive tannins. Aging is then carried out in vessels specifically chosen and suited to the characteristics of the plot.

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc (100%).