2023 Domaine de Ladoucette Sancerre Blanc Comte Lafond, Loire Valley

Domaine de Ladoucette Sancerre Blanc Comte Lafond is a refined and beautifully expressive Sauvignon Blanc from one of Sancerre’s most esteemed producers. Crafted from limestone-rich vineyards around the village of Sancerre in the upper Loire Valley, this wine showcases a more aristocratic, structured side of Sauvignon Blanc — elegant, mineral and tightly composed. The Ladoucette family, also known for their legendary Pouilly-Fumé, brings the same precision and classical winemaking approach to this cuvée.

No oak is used in the vinification. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel to preserve the aromatic clarity and natural tension of the fruit. The wine is then aged on fine lees, which contributes texture and subtle weight without dulling its freshness.

What stands out immediately is its purity. Aromas of lime blossom, white peach, gooseberry and wet stone rise from the glass, with just a hint of fennel and citrus leaf. The palate is sleek and dry, showing green apple, lemon pith, crushed chalk and a fine mineral thread that runs through to the finish. There’s restraint and length here — a wine of finesse rather than flash.

Food pairing: exceptional with oysters, goat cheese crottin, trout with beurre blanc, or asparagus with lemon vinaigrette. Also ideal with sashimi, herb-roasted chicken or grilled vegetables.

Cellar potential: delicious young for its precision and tension, but will develop over 5 to 8 years, gaining more savoury and smoky mineral complexity.