2018 Jean-Paul Picard Sancerre Blanc

The Picard family has been making wines in Sancerre since the 1600s. Today they produce 8,350 cases between two cuvées of white, two cuvées of red, and their rose. Mickael Picard has been in charge of the Domaine since 2004. The wines produced by this small, 14 hectare Domaine (spread over 45 different parcels) are proof that not all Sancerres are created equal. As Sancerre is a large appellation, the best villages have developed their own reputation for quality, Bué the Picard's home, considered one of the finest!

"Sancerre lovers and fans of rich white wines everywhere can rejoice in the statement above. 2018 as one of the “most exceptional vintages” in the last 50 years, according to one of the area’s leading producers, is clearly one of this year’s major stories in the wine world." ~Forbes

The vineyard slopes surrounding this hamlet have outstanding clay-limestone soils, sunny southwestern exposures, and ideal elevations which Mickael farms sustainably (culture raisonnée). The grapes are always hand-harvested (while 90% of the producers in Sancerre harvest mechanically) and the Sancerre Blanc is produced from the very select Grand Chemarin and Chêne Marchand vineyards. Superb terroir and limited production translate into very generous and gratifying wines.

Farming/vinification practices: sustainable. The grass is allowed to partially grow in the vineyards. The wines are vegan – the whites and rosés are fined with bentonite while the reds are unfined.

Tasting Notes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc. Pale gold in color, the wine opens with bright aromatic notes of exotic fruit and citrus, with subtle hints of minerality and orange blossom. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and balanced with a bright crisp finish.