Sancerre has always been the star of the Loire Valley. Though recent years have seen interest explode in the region’s other appellations, Sancerre remains the best known and among the best-liked. It’s popular, easy to drink, easy to pronounce, and pairs well with lots of dishes.
Today’s wine is classic Sancerre — mineral, bright, refreshing and summery… it just happens to be red. Nearly a quarter of the appellation is planted to Pinot Noir. Like the Sauvignon Blanc used to make white Sancerre, Pinot Noir deftly and elegantly expresses the minerality of Sancerre’s terroir.
It’s a perfect summertime red wine, particularly when served cool.
The whites of the Domaine de la Garenne have already received a warm welcome from our readers — their Sancerre 2017 is cool, lively, and refreshing; their Sancerre “Bouffants” 2017 is full of intensity, minerality, and elegance. Garenne’s Sancerre rouge is in the same line: refreshing and well balanced, with no new oak and an unusually complex palate.
If the words “Sancerre rouge” call to mind a simple fruit-forward wine, this wine should expand that notion. There’s indeed beautiful red fruit with violets and honey, but also a complex earthiness, both from stones and forest floor. The smooth, relaxed tannins make this go down surprisingly easily — you’ll be amazed how fast a bottle disappears from your summer table.
Serve this wine cool or chilled, with goat cheese on crackers.
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Garenne Sancerre red 2016
bottle price : $28
FREE EAST COAST SHIPPING ON ANY 12 BOTTLES