100 Year-Old Vines - 0.7ha:
2014 Roches Neuves Memoires

Posted by Joe Salamone

For many, Les Mémoires is Roches Neuves' top wine.

There's no doubt that Les Mémoires stands as one of the Loire's grandest examples of Cabernet Franc, boasting a startling depth, sophistication and old vine complexity.

Roches Neuves' Thierry Germain has long been one of the Loire's top producers. However, in the past few vintages, the wines have really settled into a refined and elegant style that's blown us away.

In France, people have taken notice. Recently, for example, the Revue du Vin de France awarded Roches Neuves their highest ranking (3 Stars), a distinction that they share only with Clos Rougeard in the Loire.

Judging by the responses to our offers, word is out on this side of the Atlantic as well. Any time we've offered Roches Neuves, we've quickly sold out and scrambled to try to find more. Out of the entire line-up, we have the least Mémoires available.

Les Mémoires comes from a tiny parcel of 108 year-old vines on clay and limestone. Germain releases somewhere around 200 cases per vintage. 2012 was the debut vintage and from the outset we were shocked at how deeply complex it was, with silken tannins and a clearly noble stature.

The 2014 is likely the best Les Mémoires to date. It's a strong vintage for the Loire, showing real substance and crystal-clear acidity. The vintage made for a Mémoires of real intensity with poise and finesse.

I wish I had more to offer, because this is stunning. Since the first vintage, Mémoires has been one of the most important reds of the Loire, but in 2014 it really comes into its own.

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

Joe Salamone


Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits