Roches Neuves produces some of the top wines of the Loire.

Out of the entire line-up, it's the Franc de Pied that proves the most elusive and quietest in its profundity.

The Franc de Pied has such a tightly wound and subtly nuanced profile that it can come off as endlessly complex. Even within Roches Neuves, the Franc de Pied bottling seems to work in a different register.

The Franc de Pied is based on vines that haven't been grafted on to American root stock as nearly all of Europe's vines have been to escape phylloxera. Germain planted Franc de Pied Cabernet Franc vines at high density in sandy soils in 2004. Since its first release in 2008, it's been one of his most fascinating wines.

Roches Neuves' Franc de Pied delivers an entirely different textural dimension, length and precision than his other wines. There's a delicacy and at the same time a depth and intensity that's utterly unique.

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 presentation.

The Franc de Pied bottling always stands out for its freshness and lift. The 2017 has a silky refinement and elegance that's staggering. It has an outrageous purity and deeply etched detail.

Production of the Franc de Pied is very modest and we don’t have very much available. It's a shame, because this is one of most haunting bottles of the Loire.

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

Joe Salamone

Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits