2016 Pascal Reverdy Sancerre Terre de Maimbray, Loire Valley

Pascal Reverdy’s domaine is based in the tiny hamlet of Maimbray. Maimbray is located in a valley surrounded by chalk hills adjacent to Chavignol and Verdigny. From their small cellar they produce one of France’s most highly awarded Sancerres.

The Reverdy’s are highly accomplished viticulturists. They take great pride in their vineyards and they make it clear that the quality of the fruit comes from constant work and attention to every little detail in the vineyard throughout the year. The white Sancerre ‘Terre de Maimbray’ is picked at approximately 13° baumé and shows wonderful concentration of pure Sauvignon Blanc fruit, with chalky mineral flavours adding another dimension.

The Reverdy’s reputation concerns both red and white cuvées, and there is also a rosé produced here. In the vineyard, yields are restricted and fruit is hand harvested. Each plot is fermented separately, and the cellar is well equipped with the option of stainless steel or wood for the fermentation and naturally, temperature control to preserve the freshness that characterises the white wines of the region. There are several white cuvées, starting with the straight Sancerre, and the Terre de Maimbray bottlings. Then comes Les Coûtes, from a single hillside plot of 50 year old vines, harvested at 45 hl/ha, followed by the Vielles Vignes, made from vines aged over 60 years, mostly from a single plot, harvested at less than 40 hl/ha, and fermented in old oak or acacia. All the wines rest on their lees over the winter, before bottling the following spring. These are wines of richness and depth that are gaining increasing recognitio