The 50-hectare Domaine des Roches Neuves is run by Bordelais Thierry Germain and is situated in the appellation of Saumur-Champigny in the Loire Valley. The winery has existed since 1850, and since purchasing the estate in 1991, Thierry has turned it into one of the finest in France. The estate is run strictly along biodynamic lines, harvesting is manual and yields are low. Vinification is carried out only in small batches and the wines are neither filtered not fined. The straight Saumur-Champigny is a plump and velvety Cabernet Franc. Ideal with grilled red meats or stews.

A garnet-red with purple tints. On the nose, scents of violets, irises and stewed red fruits. On the palate, harmonious and balanced with a full-body. The finish is long with elegant and subtle tannins. Try with rabbit and mushroom soup, roast leg of salt-marsh lamb or veal chops with baby onions and wild mushrooms.