2023 Francois Crochet Sancerre, Loire Valley

Bright, clean, and effortlessly poised, Francois Crochet’s Sancerre is a brilliant snapshot of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc at its most refined. Grown in and around the village of Bué, where limestone, clay, and flint soils converge, this wine strikes a perfect balance between fruit expression, mineral drive, and cool-climate freshness.

Francois Crochet, a thoughtful and detail-focused winemaker, farms organically and allows his wines to tell the story of vintage and place without unnecessary interference. His approach in the cellar is subtle and hands-off—native yeast fermentation in stainless steel, no oak, and extended lees contact to build texture and length.

This cuvée brings together fruit from multiple parcels across the estate, including some from the flintier soils that give an extra edge of tension and aromatic lift. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc that’s precise but not austere, expressive without being overdone.

Aromas of citrus blossom, crushed limestone, gooseberry, and white peach lead into a palate that’s sleek and energetic, with fine acid structure and a long, chalky finish. It’s a wine that refreshes and intrigues in equal measure.

Perfect as an aperitif or alongside oysters, goat cheese, or anything bright and herbal.