2025 Nicolas Millet Sancerre Les Garennes

The Millet family has been nurturing their vines since the 1700s, making their name synonymous with winemaking excellence in Sancerre. Starting in the quaint village of Bué, the domaine began with only 1.5 acress of vines and has flourished over the centuries, now spanning nearly 50 acres.

It’s here, on the sun-drenched, sloping vineyards, that Nicolas Millet, the 9th generation, continues the family tradition with a unique approach to farming.

The domaine was revitalized after the devastating Phylloxera crisis, when the family turned to Sauvignon Blanc as the grape of choice for their white wines. The domain now consists of 35 acres planted with Sauvignon Blanc and 10 acres dedicated to the noble Pinot Noir for Sancerre Rouge and Rosé. Les Garennes is a single vineyard expression of world class Sauv Blanc.

Les Garennes is four hectares in the villages of Bué and Vinon, sitting between 180 and 250 meters with a south-to-southeast tilt. The soil is 100% caillottes — the shallow, pebbly limestone that gives Sancerre its cut and its chalky spine.

Nicolas Millet has operated the family estate for more than a decade and is deeply committed to nature and sustainability. His organic and biodynamic practices allow the vines to flourish with minimal intervention.

Using phytotherapy, like horsetail and nettle, and regenerative agriculture techniques, he enhances soil health and biodiversity. He also employs innovative methods, such as using skimmed milk to naturally combat mildew, reducing the need for chemicals. This thoughtful approach ensures the vines thrive while preserving the land for future generations.