Domaine de Rocheville

The history of Domaine de Rocheville

The history of Domaine de Rocheville is linked to the Saumur Champigny appellation. It was created by Philippe Porcher in 2004, who had long been looking for vines in this appellation. After years of searching, he found a few acres in the commune of Parnay. As a result, Domaine de Rocheville is one of the last vineyards to be created in the Saumur Champigny appellation.

With the help of his wife, Agnès, and field expert Jérôme Callet, Philippe Porcher vinified his first harvest in 2005. Every year since, new cuvées have been created and Domaine de Rocheville has begun to establish its reputation. In 2013, he built his own winery, adjacent to his vines, on the Parnay hillside.

To better welcome its visitors and help them discover its cuvées, Domaine de Rocheville has since expanded, with a superb tasting room, with an exceptional view overlooking the Loire and the Parnay valley.

The Domaine de Rocheville vineyard

The Domaine de Rocheville vineyard is nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, between Tours and Angers. Rainfall in the commune of Parnay is one of the lowest in the region, encouraging the vines to spread their roots deep underground. The subsoil is composed of tuffeau, a rock capable of retaining water like a sponge. It stores winter rains and releases them during periods of drought. This is how the vines find their hydration throughout the year.

The Domaine de Rocheville terroir extends over a clay-limestone soil that is perfectly suited to the two grape varieties grown on the estate: Chenin and Cabernet Franc.

The wines of Domaine de Rocheville

Domaine de Rocheville wines are renowned for being fruity, full-bodied and velvety. They can be drunk young, but are also ideal for laying down.

Le Fou du Roi - Saumur Champigny

Domaine de Rocheville's Le Fou du Roi is a powerful, silky red wine. It is made exclusively from Cabernet Franc grown on the Loire hillside at the foot of Parnay's medieval church. Close to 50 years old, the vines benefit from a south-southeast exposure and clay-limestone soil.

The nose of Fou du Roi is complex and rich. It blends aromas of black fruits with toasty notes. The palate is elegant, backed by a robust structure. The finish is long and energetic. Domaine de Rocheville's Fou du Roi should be served at a cool temperature, between 14 and 16°C. It should be opened 3 or 4 hours before drinking and decanted.

Fou du Roi is the perfect accompaniment to all red meats, whether simmered or roasted. It's also a delicious accompaniment to sauces and game dishes. Finally, it rounds off your meal with a generous cheese platter.

Domaine de Rocheville's Fou du Roi is an excellent wine for laying down. It should be enjoyed between 6 and 10 years. If you're patient, it's even better after 15 years.