2020 Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge La Moussière, Loire Valley

Biodynamic. Mellot’s villages Pinot is drawn from 5.5 hectares of densely planted vines in La Moussière on Saint-Doulchard marl. The vines are aged between 25 and 45 years and yields are restricted to around 32 hl/ha (about the same quantity of fruit as a Burgundian winemaker would take off his Clos de La Roche). The fermentation took place in 60-hectolitre wooden vats, beginning with a five to 10-day cold maceration, followed by alcoholic fermentation with punching down of the cap. The wines then went into Burgundian oak for between 10 and 18 months.
 
From the top growers, the best Sancerre Pinots can give good Burgundy a run for its money, and few would argue there is a finer address for Sancerre rouge than Alphonse Mellot. Indulged by another warm, sunny growing season, the 2019 is packed with vitality and bustling with brambly fruits, spicy depth, and a touch of smoky reduction. Fine-boned tannins and a wonderfully voluminous palate full of succulent cherry fruits lead towards refreshing, chalky structure. It finishes with substance and tapering length. A deeply impressive Sancerre rouge that begs a few years to hit its straps.