Henri Bourgeois Red Sancerre Pinot Noir 2022, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France

These Pinot Noir vines are grown on a terroir of clay (65%) and limestone (35%). The limestone gives the wine its backbone, while the clay gives it flesh. Controlled yields with high-density cultivation and grassing between the rows, and once picked, the fruit goes through maceration for 12 days in vats. As soon as the malolactic fermentation is finished, the wine is aged in oak barrels (renewed by 1/3 each year) and in stainless steel vats for 10 months.

Supple, round, and with a beautiful texture, this red Sancerre lets the Pinot Noir express itself with breadth and a lot of charm. Very aromatic, it releases flavors of morello cherry and strawberries and subtly woody notes. Its structure and acidity will ensure it ages well for 5 to 6 years.

For 10 generations, the Bourgeois family has committed efforts and emotions to working with vines, creating wines, and sharing their personalities. However, the main figure of the turning point in the family’s history was Henri Bourgeois. From cultivating two hectares on the slopes of Chavignol, he took the audacious step in the 1950’s of concentrating on his vines in an area that was, until then, unknown. This is where wines of high quality were born and to which he gave his name.

PAIRING: Lightly braised meats, river fish, chicken dishes, hard cheeses, mushrooms. 

NOTEABLE RATINGS: 91 points James Suckling.