Sancerre blanc “Les Herses” AOC 2020

Tasting Notes for Sancerre blanc “Les Herses” AOC 2020 by Matthias Planchon

Colour & Appearance

An intense straw yellow gleams in the glass.

Nose

The wine opens immediately, revealing a fascinating complexity: aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle and white tea meet subtle exotic notes such as pineapple and guava. Behind this, the cool terroir unveils itself with citrus notes, fresh mint, alongside mineral nuances of wet stone and petrichor.

Palate

On the palate, this Sancerre presents itself juicy, ripe and full of dense substance. The creamy, silky texture from lees ageing is supported by a delicate touch of oak. Flavours of whitecurrants, crisp apples, pears, floral tones and a smoky, stony character define the mouthfeel. The acidity is crystal-clear and polished, ensuring that its pronounced power always remains balanced.

Finish

Leads into a long, extremely elegant and intensely mineral finish.

Terroir & Origin

Hails from the 0.98-hectare parcel in the south-east facing site of Les Herses (Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre). The Sauvignon Blanc vines, averaging 45 years in age, are deeply rooted in soils of clay and silex (flint), which lend the wine its characteristic cool salinity and complexity.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Sauvignon Blanc from biodynamic farming (since 2018). Following gentle harvesting and slow pressing, spontaneous fermentation takes place: 70% in stainless steel and 30% in 500-litre wooden casks. Ageing on the fine lees lasts for up to twelve months, followed by bottling according to the lunar cycle.

Food Pairings

Pairs brilliantly with spicy Korean fried chicken with Gochujang, a savoury prawn quiche with leeks or light spring vegetables from the wok with glass noodles.

Special Features

Matthias Planchon descends from a remarkable historical lineage – his ancestor discovered phylloxera in 1868. Today, Matthias focuses on minimal yields (a total production of just 22,000 bottles) and extended lees contact. The interplay of biodynamic viticulture and silex terroir produces what he describes as “l’eau de roche” – liquid stone in the glass.