2022 Daniel Crochet Sancerre Cuvee Prestige

Overview: This cuvee is produced from a blend of 3 different plots of older vines. The plots are situated in the towns of Sancerre and Bué, all AOC Sancerre.

Soil: Pebbly limestone

Production Area: 0.4 hectares

Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Average Age of the Vines: 41-44 years old

Harvest: The grapes are harvested manually, sorted, then transported to the presser by conveyer belt.

Viticulture: The vines are pruned in simple Guyot. The vineyard is in organic conversion since 2020.

Vinification: Sequential pneumatic pressing of whole grapes. A static settling of approximately 72 hours is carried out at low temperature. Fermentation in vats between 16-22°C with the use of indigenous yeasts.

Aging: On the fine lees for 6-9 months with regular batonnage. Light fining and filtration, then tartaric stabilization. Bottling on the estate.

Tasting Notes: Pale gold color. The full bouquet has pear, citrus, and mineral tones that open instantly. This is a highly aromatic wine with an excellent balance between soft and dry on the palate, and an almost lush finish of white flowers like lilac mixed with ripe white fruit. A bright jewel.

Food Pairings: Scallops, oysters, goat cheese, etc.

Serving Temperature: Serve at 10-12°C when consumed as an aperitif, and 12-14°C with meals.

About the producer

The Estate: This domaine is in its fourth generation; Daniel Crochet took over the family business in 1996 after studying viticulture and oenology at the Lycée Wine Avize in the Marne. Since 1996, operations have expanded to reach an area of 9.15 hectares total: 5.92 hectares Sauvignon Blanc, and 3.23 hectares of Sauvignon Pinot Noir. The plots are located in the towns of Sancerre and Bué, all AOC Sancerre. The soils consist of "terres blanches"- clay-limestone, and "caillottes"– pebbly limestone. These important viticultural techniques are employed on the estate: ploughing, and ENM (the practice of permitting natural grass to grown among the vines). This alone represents 70% of the property with the aim to preserve soil quality and avoid erosion as well as limiting the yields of the vines in order to obtain the maximum concentration in the grapes. In addition, a conscientious and environmentally responsible program of pest and disease control is practiced throughout the estate.