2015 Thierry Germain, Saumur Champigny “Les Roches” Loire Valley, France.
The beautiful and detailed all biodynamic/organic 2015 Les Roches by Thierry Germain takes a few moments to unveil itself, like an exotic fan dancer, but then wow, this gorgeous chalky and perfumed 100% Cabernet Franc really shows it’s class and energy, it’s absolutely stunning. The Thierry Germain Saumur Champigny Les Roches comes from mostly 30 to 40 year old vines set on clay, chalk, sand and limestone, it was 100% de-stemmed, native yeast fermented in stainless and raised in old foudres and stainless steel on the fine lees for just a few months without added sulfur. This pure and natural Saumur Champigny is medium bodied and delicate with layers of graceful flavors and intriguing class, the nose brings earth, violets, mineral notes and a hint of bell pepper and mixed spices leading to a refined palate of blackberry, creme de violet, tart currants, black cherry and earthy mulberry fruits with cinnamon, truffle, chalky dust, lavender oil and sweet basil. This charming Cabernet Franc speaks to the soul and heart, it gives remarkable terroir expression and is a great value, at 13% alcohol it is perfectly balanced and wonderfully open knit with ripe opulence and dreamy texture, imported now by Kermit Lynch, drink over the next 3 to 5 years, though I suspect it can easily go well longer. Cab Franc lovers will not want to miss this vintage of Thierry Germain, and especially this seductive and classic Les Roches Saumur Champigny which really over delivers, it’s brilliant starting point to explore his wines and the region.
($24 Est.) 93+ Points, grapelive
