Sancerre blanc „Les Chasseignes“ AOC 2023

Wine description for Sancerre blanc „Les Chasseignes“ AOC 2023 by Claude Riffault

Colour & Appearance

Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections, brilliant clarity. A youthful, vibrant wine that displays its freshness in the glass.

Nose

Classic Sancerre with precise aromatics: gooseberry, white currant and citrus fruits dominate. These are complemented by flint, wet chalk and a hint of freshly cut grass. The altitude and limestone soil lend the wine a remarkable mineral depth.

Palate

Taut and focused with vibrant acidity that carries the wine. The 14% alcohol is perfectly integrated and gives the wine structure without masking the typical Sancerre elegance. Grapefruit, green apple and a saline minerality characterise the flavour. Despite its power, the wine remains lean and precise – a balancing act that Claude Riffault executes masterfully.

Finish

Long, cool and mineral with lingering citrus notes and a fine chalky character. The acidity refreshes and invites the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard site „Les Chasseignes“ sits at 280 metres altitude with a south-easterly aspect on pure limestone soil (Kimmeridgian). This altitude ensures cool nights and preserves freshness despite the warm 2023 vintage. The limestone shapes the mineral character that distinguishes Riffault’s wines.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Sauvignon Blanc from old vines. Claude Riffault works biodynamically and allows maximum expression of the terroir. Vinification is restrained to preserve the purity of the fruit and minerality.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Oysters, goat’s cheese (particularly Crottin de Chavignol), grilled sea bass, scallops, asparagus with hollandaise sauce or sushi. The wine also pairs beautifully with seafood and light fish dishes.

Special Features

Claude Riffault ranks among Sancerre’s top winemakers. His biodynamically farmed vineyards and uncompromising quality focus make his wines authentic terroir ambassadors. The 2023 displays remarkable freshness and elegance despite the warm vintage.