# Domaine des Vieux Pruniers (2023)

- **Producer:** Earl Christian Thirot Fournier
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €28
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 9–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, gooseberry, grapefruit, lemon, pear, pastry, biscuit, wet stones

## About this wine

Sancerre Domaine des Vieux Pruniers 2023 is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley's Sancerre appellation. Produced by Earl Christian Thirot Fournier, a family with a multi-generational winemaking history, the estate is located in the esteemed Cru village of Bué. The vineyards benefit from chalky limestone and clay-limestone soils, including 'Caillottes' and 'Terres Blanches', on south-facing slopes. The domaine is committed to sustainable viticulture, with a focus on expressing the unique terroir of Sancerre.

## Interesting facts

- The Thirot-Fournier family farms 7 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc.
- Vineyards are situated on south-facing slopes at 250 meters elevation.
- The domaine uses no herbicides on most of its parcels.
- Bué is recognized as a prime Cru area within Sancerre.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity and minerality cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its citrus notes complement the natural sweetness of shellfish. The herbaceous undertones can echo fresh herbs used in dishes, and its dry profile makes it an excellent counterpoint to the tanginess of goat cheese.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process begins with immediate pressing of the grapes after harvest, followed by cold settling of the juice. Alcoholic fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for about 15 days. Post-fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for several months to develop texture and complexity. The final stages involve fining, filtering, and bottling at the domaine. The producer is committed to sustainable viticulture, with a practice of not using herbicides on most of their vineyard parcels.