In Top Form - Loire Royalty:
2015 Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny Clos de l'Echelier

Posted by Joe Salamone

After tasting the 2015 Clos de l'Echelier for the first time, we set out to buy as much of the wine as we could find.

Last week, we opened yet another bottle, and again, it blew us away.

Clos de l'Echelier is a very special expression of Cabernet Franc, and the 2015 vintage elevated the wine to a stunning level. There's a rarely encountered level of depth and refinement.

In any vintage, Clos de l'Echelier separates itself from the pack. It's rare that people compare a Cab Franc to Chambolle, but that's how people talk about l'Echelier. In the Loire continuum, Saumur-Champigny is known to be more muscular compared to Chinon and Bourgueil. In the l'Echelier, you get Saumur's density, but with a shocking amount of precision and class.

Clos de l’Echelier is a 1.8ha walled vineyard on hard limestone soils. There's only a thin layer of topsoil. We associate a certain elegance and sleek precision with limestone. And the l’Echelier really delivers these qualities.

The 2015 vintage is a snapshot of Roches Neuves at the top of their game. The wines have plenty of punch, structure, and penetrating terroir imprints.

In 2015, L'Echelier is mind-blowing. The ripe vintage gave it an extra level of complexity, but what really amazes is the gorgeous, weightless impression that the wine leaves. It's silken and has a captivating cast of aromatics. There's not one single component that seems out of place.

We're really excited to watch the 2015 l'Echelier age. It's a total package of class, balance, and concentration. Wines rarely come this close to hitting the bullseye. Don't miss out.

To order, email offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.

Joe Salamone


Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits

2015 Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny Clos de l'Echelier

Special Bottle Price: $54.95

Special 4-Pack Price: $199.80 ($49.95/btl)