Loire Aristocrat - Century Old Vines: 2017 Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny Les Memoires

Posted by Joe Salamone

Les Mémoires is sourced from a tiny parcel of 100+ year old vines.

It is one of the most intriguing and profound expressions of Cabernet Franc.

It boasts a startling depth, sophistication and old vine complexity.

Les Mémoires’ old vines dig deep into limestone soils and turn out concentrated grapes that possess a haunting, nuanced character.

In the past five years, Thierry Germain's Roches Neuves has been recognized as one of the Loire's elites. For many people, Memoires is the top wine. Its multifaceted personality is certainly profound, but so rich in mystery that you never seem to fully get a handle on the wine.

The 2017 vintage in the Loire has an amazing purity and a high-toned floral profile. Across the region, spring frost reduced yields, but the conditions at harvest were close to ideal. The wines have a gripping presence and a bright and lifted profile.

One of the impressive qualities of Memoires is how it seamlessly weaves such layered tapestry. The 2017 is an incredible example of this. Its intensity, grandeur and poise are amazing. There's a pitch-perfect clarity to its expression of spice, flowers, earth and dark fruits.

In any given vintage, 200 or so cases of Memoires are produced. Many are quickly snapped up by top restaurants in France. The quantity available is always depressing and the 2017 is no different. Please give us your ideal order and we'll try our best.

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

Joe Salamone


Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits