The l’Échelier Blanc is always the most incisively mineral of Roches Neuves' whites.
Clos de l’Échelier is a 1.8ha clos (a walled vineyard) that has hard limestone soils.
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The majority of the clos is planted with Cabernet Franc. The very small amount of Chenin comes from sixty-year-old vines and in a typical vintage, the total production is just two oval casks and comes to somewhere around 1,200 bottles per vintage.
The small amount of Clos de l’Échelier Blanc that's produced is absolutely thrilling. It boasts a finely etched minerality, serious verve, and soaring intensity.
Many people taste Roches Neuves and reference Burgundy. In this case, we're definitely in Corton-Charlemagne territory.
The 2016 Clos de l’Échelier Blanc is fascinating. It has such concentration that the minerality assumes a real textural presence. The profile is a vivid, cool-fruited one and that makes the level of intensity all the more interesting. There is also the intricate structure that we've come to expect from the wine. Now three years after release, the l’Echelier Blanc has developed a beautiful amount of focus and finesse.
It's been very exciting to watch Roches Neuves assume elite status. Without a doubt, they are at the top of their game. The wines have extraordinary clarity, elegance, and delicacy. The 2016 Clos de l’Échelier Blanc exemplifies why Roches Neuves has been placed alongside the Loire's absolute best.
To order, email offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.
Joe Salamone
Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits
