Many of you know and love to drink Sancerre – a wine growing region located in the central vineyards of the Loire Valley in France. Most wine drinkers are familiar with the whites that dominate the region. Sancerre Blanc is always made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. These crisp, clean, and refreshing wines have become very popular and with good reason. In general they tend to be great quality for their price point and the best among them set the bar for Sauvignon Blanc globally.

What many don’t know is that while this area is heavily dominated by white wine, a respectable amount of red wine is also produced (about 20% of the region’s production). To be labeled Sancerre Rouge, a wine must be 100% Pinot Noir. As a result of the overwhelming popularity of Sancerre blanc, these Pinots have been a hard sell for the region. Much of the red wine produced is sold locally. Until recently most producers treated their reds pretty much as an afterthought. Now Pinot Noir is getting serious attention. The wines may not yet plumb the depths of, say, Vôsne-Romanée or Chambertin, but the best ought to make Burgundy take notice. Sancerre rouge is getting better every day.

On offer this week is the 2012 Domaine de la Villaudiere Cuvee Heritage. This wine is 100% Pinot Noir. We have offered the Sauvignon Blanc from this producer in the past to much critical acclaim. We are delighted to now offer the rare and delicious Pinot Noir from this esteemed winery. This is a tremendous example of this wine and the modern style that is setting the standard for reds from this region. This is well worth a try!

The 2012 Domaine de la Villaudiere Cuvee Heritage is available for immediate delivery. We only have 20 cases of this rare gem on offer. To order, please e-mail or telephone our office.

To your continued good health!
2012 Cuvee Heritage
$35.95 btl / $215.70 cs (case of 6 x 750ml)

Bright, deep, ruby hue. On the nose the wine opens with a harmonious blend of grilled, smoked and toasted aromas complexed by fruity notes (ripe dark berries). These aromas follow through on the broad palate. The wine has a wonderful soft, silky texture. A beautifully structured wine with an enticing finish.

Drink: Now – 2020+

Food Pairing: The perfect accompaniment with a cut of beef, roast chicken or a platter of cheeses

Accolades:

High in acidity as well as red berry fruits, this is a wine in development. Its fruits are all there, fresh and rich. Light tannins and touches of wood add a structure. It will need time; drink from 2016.  The Wine Enthusiast, October 2014, 89 points