Sancerre Blanc, Domaine Vacheron 2025 75cl

The Vacheron family have farmed in Sancerre for generations, and they were among the first serious names in the appellation to convert to biodynamics, certified organic and biodynamic since the early 2000s with no synthetic inputs at any stage. That commitment shows in the precision of the wine.

Sancerre sits at the eastern end of the Loire, and this is Sauvignon Blanc grown on the flinty, chalk-rich soils that give the region its cut and its gunflint edge. This is a world away from the tropical, exuberant style of New Zealand: it's restrained, mineral and built for the table, exactly what benchmark Sancerre should be.

The nose is elegant and reined-in, all green apple, citrus peel and gooseberry, grapefruit zest and a distinct struck-flint smokiness, with herbal hints of nettle and wild mint emerging as it opens. The palate is crisp and invigorating, with lemon, lime, fresh pear and a saline snap, carried by a pronounced flinty minerality. The finish is long, clean and refined.

At around £35 this is one of the more distinguished Sancerres at the price, a wine that rewards attention rather than simply refreshing. Drink it over the next two to three years while its energy is intact.

How to Serve

Serve at 7-10°C in a white-wine glass. Skip the decanter, but don't serve it fridge-cold; a touch of warmth releases the flint and herbal notes.

Where to Drink It

Noble Rot for a thoughtful Loire selection. J Sheekey with a fruits de mer platter. Bentley's at the oyster bar.

Food Pairings

A classic with fresh goat's cheese, the Loire's own pairing. It's also excellent with grilled sea bass or a plate of oysters.