Domaine François Crochet - Sancerre Rouge 2023
Domaine François Crochet is one of the finest and most respected names in the Sancerre region. Located in Bué, an emblematic village of the appellation, it is managed by François and Carine Crochet with constant rigor in both the vineyards and the winery. The domaine has established itself through precise, pure wines deeply marked by the great soils of Sancerre. While whites naturally hold an important place in the appellation's image, François Crochet's reds demonstrate how Pinot Noir can find here an elegant and refined expression. The vineyard is worked organically, with a biodynamic approach that enhances soil vitality and the finesse of the wines' expression. This Sancerre Rouge 2023 embodies a delicate interpretation of the Loire Valley Pinot Noir, leaning more towards elegance, freshness, and vibrancy than power. It is a refined cuvée, ideal for lovers of fine, digestible reds deeply rooted in their terroir.
The Sancerre Rouge 2023 cuvée is made exclusively from Pinot Noir, the historic red grape variety of the appellation. The grapes come from a blend of parcels of the domaine, located on limestone and clay-limestone terroirs that bring finesse, energy, and precision to the wine. The vines, about 25 years old, produce balanced material with expressive fruit and naturally moderate structure. The harvest is done by hand, with rigorous sorting of the clusters to preserve the purity of the grape. Vinification combines whole cluster and destemmed grapes, which brings both fruit brightness, aromatic freshness, and spicy relief. After cold maceration, fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts, with a maceration of about 20 days. Aging in tapered wooden vats supports the wine without imposing marked oak, leaving full room for the fruit, texture, and elegance of the Pinot Noir.
In the glass, Domaine François Crochet Sancerre Rouge 2023 reveals a bright, luminous, and delicate ruby robe. The nose opens with fresh cherry, strawberry, raspberry, and small red fruits, with floral nuances and a touch of soft spices. The palate is supple, juicy, and very elegant, carried by beautiful freshness and fine tannins. The wine seduces with its balance between gourmandise, precision, and lightness of touch, in a very Loire Valley style. The finish prolongs the crunchy red fruit with a slightly peppery note and a discreet mineral sensation. This Sancerre Rouge will perfectly accompany roasted poultry, pork tenderloin, veal with mushrooms, a sauté of chanterelles, duck with red fruits, or vegetable cuisine centered on roasted vegetables. Serve around 14 to 16°C, after a short aeration, to reveal all its aromatic finesse and the brightness of Pinot Noir.
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir
