2024 Fournier Silex Sancerre Blanc, Loire Valley

Maison Fournier is a longstanding name in the Loire Valley, with its roots in Sancerre and a reputation for Sauvignon Blanc that reflects the region's varied soils. Their Silex cuvée explores one of Sancerre's most fascinating terroirs, where flint rich soils contribute a distinctive stony, smoky character to the wine.

Silex is the French word for flint, a soil type particularly associated with the eastern parts of Sancerre. The 2024 comes from a cooler, more demanding Loire vintage, favouring bright acidity, delicate aromatics and a finely structured style. It is a lovely choice for those who enjoy Sauvignon Blanc with a little more mineral character and restraint.

Pale straw yellow with green reflections. Lemon zest, white grapefruit and crisp green apple mingle with elderflower, fresh fennel and a hint of struck flint. The palate is taut and refreshing, with lively citrus, subtle orchard fruit and a distinctly stony texture. A gentle smoky note and saline freshness carry through the long, mouthwatering finish.

Try it with grilled sardines and lemon, oysters with cucumber mignonette, or crispy artichokes with herb aioli. Its bright acidity would also work beautifully with goat's cheese and asparagus ravioli.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. The freshness and mineral structure should reward a few years in the cellar.