By L'Escarpe
AOP Sancerre 2018

History
According to legend, vines have been planted in Sancerre since ancient times. Evidence of the existence of vines in Sancerre is given by Gregory of Tours in 582. In the 12th century, the famous wine of Sancerre was, in the opinion of Duke Jean de Berry, indeed the finest wine to be found in the entire kingdom. The original vineyards, which were predominantly planted with Pinot vines, were destroyed by phylloxera at the end of the 19th century. Sauvignon has since become widely planted and is particularly suited to the local climate. The AOC status was obtained in 1936.

Terroir
Location: Located along the banks of the river Loire to the east of Bourges. Sancerre vineyards stretch over 2,770 hectares and contain three types of soils
Soils: Clay and limestone white soils ("terres blanches") located on the hills of the most western part of the region; pebbly soils ("caillottes"); siliceous-clay soils to the east of the vineyard, on the hills

Vinification
The focus of our winemaker is to express the pure fruit flavors of Sauvignon blanc and the natural terroir of the region. We used parceled growing, which lets us extract particular flavors from each parcel, sometimes fruitier, more mineral, sharper, or more velvety. Our facilities are very modern. The vats are kept at controlled temperatures. We use pneumatic presses and traditional cold winemaking techniques, giving the wine the best natural aromas.

Tasting Notes
This white wine (yellow color with golden highlights) is lively and full of fruit with pleasant mineral and citrus fruits aromas (acacia, jasmine, citrus fruits). An initial vivacity on the palate rounds off with a rich and well-balanced finish.

Food Pairing
L'Escarpe white Sancerre wine is perfect with fish and is particularly good with salmon. A local product, the goat cheese Crottin de Chavignol, is an equally good match. Foie gras would make an interesting and original partner.
[Information provided by Votto Vines]

L'ESCARPE Sauvignon Blanc 2018
Rating: 90
Drink: 2019-2020
Country: France
Region: Loire Valley
Appellation: Sancerre
Editor: J. D'Angelo
Issue: July, 2019
Importer: Votto Vines
This begins with lovely aromas of lemon, gooseberries, kiwi followed by hints of dried herbs. On the palate it is well balanced and with lively acidity, ending with a clean finish. An easy going, straightforward Sauvignon Blanc that is drinking nicely today.