Germain ‘Roches Neuves’ Cabernet Franc

Germain ‘Roches Neuves’ Cabernet Franc comes from the tuffeau limestone and clay slopes of Saumur-Champigny in the Loire Valley. Thierry Germain farms biodynamically and practices minimal-intervention winemaking to highlight the vineyard’s terroir naturally. The wine is made from Cabernet Franc grown on carefully tended, mature vines at the Roches Neuves estate, where attention to soil health and hand-harvesting is central.

On the nose, expect vibrant red berries, fresh cherries, and subtle violet aromas, with a hint of graphite and crushed stone adding complexity. The palate is lively and finely structured, with fresh acidity and silky tannins providing balance. Layers of redcurrant, raspberry, and a touch of herbal lift unfold gradually, finishing with a cool, mineral-driven note that clearly reflects the limestone-rich soils. This Cabernet Franc is approachable in its youth but has the structure and depth to age gracefully for several years.

Thierry Germain, a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in Saumur, has been making wines in the Loire since the early 1990s. He focuses on native-yeast fermentations, gentle extraction, and minimal oak influence, letting each vintage express its unique character. Roches Neuves embodies his philosophy: wines that are precise, alive, and honest, combining elegance with energy.

This wine pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, grilled vegetables, charcuterie, and lighter red meats. Its balance of fruit, minerality, and subtle tannin makes it versatile on the table, while its finesse and clarity of expression reflect the exceptional terroir of Saumur-Champigny.

Germain ‘Roches Neuves’ Cabernet Franc, Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley