Sancerre blanc “Monoparcelle 538” AOC 2023

Weinbeschreibung für Sancerre blanc “Monoparcelle 538” AOC 2023 von Claude Riffault

Colour & appearance

Pale straw yellow with brilliant reflections that herald the precision of this single-vineyard Sancerre.

Nose

A fascinating aromatic profile of remarkable complexity. The wine initially reveals a cool, stony minerality, underpinned by maritime notes of seaweed and salty sea air. With a little aeration, layers of peppery-accented citrus, fresh herbs and a subtle hint of ripe stone fruit unfold. The nose immediately conveys an impression of precision and depth.

Palate

The true greatness of this wine is revealed on the palate. Vibrating tension meets perfect balance. The acidity is razor-sharp but perfectly integrated, giving the wine an electrifying energy that lasts throughout the entire flavour. The texture is silky rather than creamy - a characteristic of the warm vintage, which was masterfully balanced by the early harvest and the absence of malolactic fermentation. The salty minerality, a direct expression of the oyster shell-rich Kimmeridge limestone soil, runs like a red thread through the flavour profile and leads to a remarkably long, complex finish.

General information

Claude Riffault demonstrates his extraordinary ability to interpret terroir with this single-vineyard Sancerre. The 47-year-old vines on a small 0.44-hectare plot in a south-south-east facing location are rooted in a limestone marl soil with a particularly high proportion of oyster shells. The 18-month ageing in used 600-litre barrels gives the wine additional dimension without masking its mineral precision.

Food pairing suggestions

The combination of intensity, minerality and freshness predestines this wine for Grilled sea bass with lemon butter, Oysters, Goat cheese or Seafood risotto. The salty component harmonises perfectly with Ceviche or Sashimi.

Special features

The 2023 vintage is a fascinating balancing act between the warmth of the summer and the cool precision of the terroir. Riffault's decision to avoid malolactic fermentation and to harvest early has produced a Sancerre of exceptional vitality and ageing potential. A prime example of how a great winemaker can turn a challenging vintage into an advantage.