Sancerre Blanc Les Calcaires

Vintage

After a humid and freezing winter, an early spring arrives with better weather. Thanks to seasonal temperatures, bud break occurs in mid-April. By late April, temperatures rises and rain sets in, requiring extra efforts to protect the vineyard. Flowering goes well with favorable weather, and then the return of rain in mid-June raises fears for disease but also results in a spectacular swelling of the grape clusters, already indicating a promising yield potential. The vineyard remains in perfect health during the ripening process and throughout the harvest, offering the possibility of achieving optimal maturity. In early September, a late heatwave hastens the start of harvest.

Terroir
A blend of grapes hailing from several plots of the estate.
These plots feature Oxfordian limestones “caillottes” and “griottes”.

Growing methods
Complete hoeing 
De-budding
Organic amendments used since 1989
Compliant with organic standards and regulation
Hand harvested       

The vines
Grape Variety: Sauvignon Blanc 
Planting density: 6,800 to 8,800 vines/hectare

Vinification

Hand picked mid-September.

Light pneumatic pressing of the whole bunches of grapes 
Cold setttling for 36 hours at 6°C 
Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks
Lees ageing during 7 months
After racking, aged on fine lees for another 10 months
Filtered and bottled early 2025

Tasting notes
Visual: golden yellow 
Nose: on opening, the nose is expressive. Floral notes with scents of hyacinths and honey flowers follow one another. Fruity aromas with hints of mirabelle plum are noticeable.
Palate: soft on the attack, the palate is full-bodied, round and generous, but also fresh with lovely bitter notes. Flavours of custard and orange liquor enliven the palate.
Serving temperature: 10°C
Food pairings: salmon with beurre blanc, chicken in sauce, truffle risotto.
Ageing potential: 6 to 8 years 

 

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