Sancerre rouge „Les Herses“ AOC 2021

Wine Description for Sancerre rouge „Les Herses“ AOC 2021 by Matthias Planchon

Colour & Appearance

Pale, translucent cherry red of remarkable clarity and elegance – a visual promise of the finesse to follow.

Nose

A seductive bouquet of cherry and cherry stone, mingling with notes of foliage and wild Mediterranean herbs. The aromatics reveal a subtle complexity typical of first-class Loire Pinot – pure finesse rather than opulent power.

Palate

Here the true class of this wine reveals itself: juicy, elegant and of impressive precision. The refined tannin structure is perfectly integrated, whilst a mineral-saline character – a gift of the silex soil – lends the wine tension and depth. The refreshing acidity carries the delicate fruit sweetness effortlessly and creates a drinking flow that invites the next sip.

Finish

Long, mineral and refreshingly clean. The fruit fades discreetly whilst the saline minerality lingers – a finish that prioritises elegance over power.

Terroir & Origin

The 0.98-hectare vineyard site in the „Les Herses“ cru sits on characteristic silex soil (flint) with south-easterly exposure. The stony terroir lends the wine its distinctive structure and mineral signature. The 45-year-old vines at high planting density (7,700 vines/ha) and moderate yields (40 hl/ha) guarantee concentration alongside elegance.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pinot Noir, hand-harvested and crafted with thoughtful vinification: 30% whole-bunch fermentation, 70% destemmed, followed by cold maceration. Three weeks of skin contact fermentation, gentle pressing. Malolactic fermentation takes place partly in ceramic tanks, partly in 228-litre barrels on fine lees – a clever balance between structure and freshness. Final maturation in stainless steel preserves the vibrancy.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Arctic char with beetroot and raspberry, salad of Brussels sprout leaves with pomegranate seeds or calf’s head with glazed onions – this versatile Pinot accompanies both delicate fish dishes and refined offal.

Special Features

Matthias Planchon works according to biodynamic principles and bottles according to the lunar cycle. His „Les Herses“ is a prime example of modern Sancerre Rouge: terroir-driven, elegant and of Burgundian finesse – without Burgundian prices.