The 2021 Thierry Germain Domaine des Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny Clos de l'Echelier Rouge is a Cabernet Franc from the renowned Loire Valley in France. This red wine hails specifically from the Saumur Champigny appellation, a sub-region known for producing some of the finest expressions of Cabernet Franc.

The wine presents a modest alcohol content of 12.5%, making it a suitable choice for those who appreciate a lighter, more nuanced red. Sealed with a traditional cork, this wine promises a classic experience from the onset.

Rebecca Gibb MW of Vinous reviewed the 2021 Clos de l'Echelier and awarded it a commendable score of 92. Gibb describes the wine as "a delicate and tender style, with impressive purity of fruit." This indicates a wine that is not only refined but also well-balanced in its fruit expression. The term "cloud-like in its lightness on the palate" suggests that the wine has a soft, almost ethereal texture, making it a unique offering in the world of Cabernet Franc.

The terroir of the Clos de l'Echelier vineyard plays a significant role in the wine's character. Gibb notes the "finest of chalk-like tannins" that "covers the mouth in a blanket of finely-pixelated image." This characteristic is attributed to the limestone-rich, north-facing site of the vineyard. The meticulous extraction process further enhances this quality, ensuring that the tannins are well-integrated without overpowering the palate.

Acidity is another key feature of this vintage. According to Gibb, "there's no shortage of acidity," but it is "entirely integrated within the wine," providing a "thread of tension" that runs through its core. This acidity not only adds to the wine's freshness but also contributes to its precise finish, tying all the elements together harmoniously.

In summary, the 2021 Thierry Germain Domaine des Roches Neuves Saumur-Champigny Clos de l'Echelier Rouge is a well-crafted, harmonious wine that showcases the best of its terroir. With its delicate style, integrated acidity, and chalk-like tannins, it stands out as an excellent example of what the Saumur Champigny appellation has to offer.