2023 Gerard Boulay La Cote Sancerre, Loire Valley

Gérard Boulay La Côte Sancerre is a stunning single-vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from one of the Loire Valley’s most revered vignerons. Sourced from the steep, chalky slopes of Chavignol — specifically the prized La Côte parcel on the Monts Damnés hill — this cuvée delivers a striking balance of power, minerality and finesse. Gérard Boulay, whose family has grown vines in Chavignol since the 14th century, produces wines with an unwavering focus on terroir, and La Côte is one of his most precise and evocative expressions.

The vineyard lies on pure Kimmeridgian limestone, a soil type more famously found in Chablis, which imparts intense minerality and lift. Boulay farms organically and keeps his winemaking deliberately minimal: native yeast fermentations, no new oak, no fining or filtration, and minimal sulphur. The wine is aged in older barrels to add texture without compromising clarity.

In the glass, La Côte shows crushed citrus, grapefruit pith, white flowers, green apple and a distinct flinty edge. The palate is racy yet textured, driven by vibrant acidity and a deep core of saline minerality. It’s both energetic and serious, a Sauvignon Blanc with real gravitas and tension.

Pair it with freshly shucked oysters, grilled white fish with lemon butter, or goat cheese crostini. This wine will cellar gracefully for up to 10 years, gaining richness and nuance with age.