Wine of the Week: Domaine Roches Neuves Saumur Champigny 2012

Thierry Germain has a purpose, to make the best red wine in all of the Loire Valley.  He is a leader in biodynamic farming, one of the first to be certified in 2000.  He has over 100 species of flora interwoven between the vines, and also incorporates zodiac philosophies in his farming to understand the position of man and vine and the cosmos.  This 100% Cabernet Franc wine is hand-harvested, foot crushed and grown with Thierry’s own compost.  Thierry has now helped 11 other vineyards adopt organic or biodynamic practices and will be staring in a documentary on biodynamic farming in France.

Sleek red fruit flavors dominate the pallet, with hints of black fruit, lilac and iron notes.  The nose is discreet, however the wine’s balance and acidity gives it magnitude and depth.  The tannins are young and grainy, but also very tasty with a long finish.  Pair with smoked turkey and cheddar croissants, bread rolls with tapenade and tuna, chicken and ground pepper, meatloaf with carrots and green olives.