Domaine de la Villaudiere Sancerre 2023

Covering 48 plots, the vineyards are over thirty years old on average. For over 20 years, the vines have been cultivated using sustainable methods with a reduced use of chemicals, known in French as ‘la lutte raisonnee’. The estate is now certified HVE Level 3 for sustainability. Enjoying an easterly exposure, ripening is slow and gradual, helping to build concentrated flavours in the grapes while retaining refreshing acidity. The vines are partially thinned in July to maintain good health throughout the growing cycle and to encourage a good phenolic maturity. This cuvée results from a blend of the two main Sancerre soil types. The vast calcareous clay slopes, locally called ‘Terres Blanches, ’ produce more complex, robust wines with more texture due to the clay content. The dry, stony limestone hills, locally known as ‘Caillottes’, produce fresh, fruity wines with floral nuances and lovely acidity. This cuvée achieves the optimum balance between the two.