Sancerre blanc „Les Herses“ AOC 2020

Wine description for Sancerre blanc „Les Herses“ AOC 2020 by Matthias Planchon

Colour & Appearance

Luminous, intense straw yellow with brilliant clarity – a wine that already promises depth and concentration in the glass.

Nose

From the outset, this Sancerre presents itself openly and invitingly with a fascinating aromatic palette: jasmine, honeysuckle and white tea meet subtly exotic notes of pineapple and guava. Citric accents join these, but above all a pronounced mineral component with flint, a hint of petrichor – that scent of rain on dry stone – and fresh mint.

Palate

On the palate, the Les Herses 2020 reveals its full class: juicy, ripe and powerful, yet of impressive depth and complexity. A creamy texture – the result of partial barrel ageing – lends the wine structure without ever becoming obtrusive. White currants, crisp apples and pears combine with floral notes, stone and a hint of smoke. The acidity is precise and clearly defined, giving the wine backbone and preventing any opulence.

Finish

Long, intense and elegant – the finish underscores the quality of this Sancerre with sustained minerality and perfectly integrated freshness.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard site Les Herses in Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre comprises two hectares with clay-flint soils facing south-east. Planchon’s 0.98-hectare parcel with vines averaging 45 years old (7,700 stocks/ha) yields a moderate 50 hl/ha – the foundation for concentration and expression.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Sauvignon Blanc, hand-harvested, gentle pneumatic pressing. Spontaneous fermentation 70% in stainless steel tank, 30% in 500-litre barrels. Ageing on fine lees for 10–12 months in the same vessels. Bottling according to lunar cycle.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excellent with Korean fried chicken with gochujang, prawn quiche with leeks or glass noodles with wok-fried spring vegetables. The minerality also harmonises perfectly with goat’s cheese and seafood.

Special Features

A Sancerre that masterfully combines power and elegance – neither too green nor too opulent, but precisely crafted with authentic terroir expression.