Domaine Vacheron Sancerre, Loire Valley

The Sancerre appellation is situated in the middle of France on limestone and flint soil near the beginning France's longest river, the Loire. The Domaine is a 10 minute stroll from the centre of town and the original 5 hectares established by Jean-Louis Vacheron in 1968 have since grown to 43 hectares. The Domaine comprises some of the finest sites in the central vineyards of the Loire Valley. Today his two sons Jean Louis and Denis run the Domaine, assisted by their two sons. Much of the Domaine is planted to Sauvignon Blanc but there are about 12 hectares of Pinot Noir planted (an unusually high proportion for the appellation) for the production of red Sancerre, for which the Domaine is particularly noted. The Domaine continues to hand-harvest their vineyards even though many growers in this appellation use mechanical harvesters. Traditional winemaking techniques are employed with fermentation for the white taking place in temperature controlled stainless steel via indigenous yeast. For the red, malolactic fermentation takes place in barrique. When young, the reds reflect the forward charm and appeal of the Pinot Noir grape. The Domaine is widely considered amongst the elite producers in Sancerre.

Sancerre 2007 The wine is renowned for its intense aroma of 'green' fruit and freshly cut grass. On first tasting the wine one is struck by the intensity of the gooseberry fruit but there is a dense mineral core with nuances of vanilla that gives the wine impressive presence. Simply delicious, this displays candied citrus and berry aromas and flavours accented by grains and pencil shavings on a firm, light-bodied structure. On the dry side, it lingers nicely on the finish. Also available in half sizes. "Lime blossoms blend with notes of chalk dust on the aromatic, lively nose. Suggestions of freshly squeezed lemonade and the crispness of green apple slices are evident on the abundantly juicy and delectable mouth. A touch of sea spray and dried flowers on the finish set the palate up for another (and another) sip. An invigorating, beautiful Sancerre that continues the unparalleled success of this great organic/biodynamic domaine!" North Berkley Wine Imports, USA

All wines are available by the unmixed case to Licensees and Private Consumers, subject to availability.

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