# Sancerre Les Chailloux (2021)

- **Producer:** Domaine Claude Riffault
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €40
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** wet stones, gooseberry, grapefruit, lemon

## About this wine

Domaine Claude Riffault Sancerre Les Chailloux 2021 is a single-varietal Sauvignon Blanc from the Sancerre appellation in the Loire Valley. The 'Les Chailloux' vineyard is a specific parcel recognized for its distinctive flint soils, which are less prevalent in this part of Sancerre. This terroir contributes a pronounced minerality and a tightly-wound character to the wine. The Riffault family estate is now managed by Stéphane Riffault, who has transitioned the domaine to organic and biodynamic farming practices. His winemaking philosophy centers on showcasing the unique expression of each vineyard site and soil type, aiming to create wines that are singular and true to their origin.

## Interesting facts

- Les Chailloux vineyard is known for its less common flint soils in northwestern Sancerre.
- Vines for this cuvée are nearly 50 years old.
- Domaine Claude Riffault has been certified organic since 2016.
- Wines are aged on lees for over a year in neutral oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's lively acidity cuts through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its minerality complements the briny notes of oysters and the subtle flavors of white fish. The crisp profile also pairs well with the tang of goat cheese.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Domaine Claude Riffault begins with meticulous vineyard management, adhering to organic and biodynamic principles. Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted. Fermentation is initiated by natural yeasts in stainless steel tanks or barrels, with malolactic fermentation intentionally avoided. The wine then undergoes an extended aging period on its lees for over a year, typically in large, neutral French oak barrels (tonneaux) or concrete tanks. This extended contact with the lees contributes to the wine's texture and complexity, while the use of neutral vessels ensures the purity of the fruit and minerality are preserved.