Roches Neuves Saumur‑Champigny La Marginale 2022 from Loire Valley arrives as a poised Cabernet Franc from winemaker Julien Roche, picked on tuffeau slopes where cool nights sharpen perfume and structure, a vineyard‑led bottle that makes a persuasive case to buy for collectors and food‑minded drinkers seeking Loire clarity.

Red cherry, raspberry and wild herb open with crushed stone minerality, powdered pepper and a thread of tobacco; fine tannins and bright acidity deliver a lithe midpalate and a persistent, savoury finish that rewards decanting and slow tasting – Roches Neuves Saumur Champigny La Marginale ’22 shows tensile focus.

Match with roast game, mushroom fricassee or herb‑roasted pork at an intimate dinner or fireside gathering where nuance matters; its food‑first character and ageing potential make purchasing by the bottle or case a confident, rewarding choice.