# Sancerre Rosé Les Belles Vignes (2023)

- **Producer:** Fournier Père & Fils
- **Colour:** rosé
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red fruit, citrus, yeast/lees

## About this wine

The Fournier Sancerre Rosé Les Belles Vignes 2023 is a 100% Pinot Noir rosé from the Sancerre AOC in France's Loire Valley. The 'Les Belles Vignes' cuvée is a recognized expression of the appellation's diverse terroirs, reflecting Fournier Père & Fils' philosophy of showcasing individual vineyard characteristics, a concept influenced by Burgundy. The estate, established in 1926 and now owned by Joost de Willebois, emphasizes understanding and expressing the distinct qualities of each vineyard and soil. This rosé is noted for its power and complexity, attributed to the Pinot Noir grape grown on the 'Terres Blanches' terroir, and is considered a 'gastronomy rosé'.

## Interesting facts

- Les Belles Vignes translates to 'beautiful vines'.
- The estate manages 39 hectares across 165 different plots.
- The winery follows organic practices, minimizing chemical use.
- This rosé is often called a 'gastronomy rosé'.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and bright acidity make it versatile. It can cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces while its subtle fruit notes complement delicate flavors. The mineral undertones from the Sancerre terroir can echo the salinity of shellfish.

## Wine making process

The Fournier Sancerre Rosé Les Belles Vignes 2023 is produced from 100% Pinot Noir grapes. The winemaking process begins with a direct, slow, and delicate pressing of the grapes. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures (16-20°C) for about three weeks, with no malolactic fermentation performed. Following fermentation, the wine matures on its fine lees for 8 months in stainless steel tanks. The estate follows organic (non-certified) practices, aiming to minimize chemical use and show respect for the environment. Harvests are conducted at dawn to preserve aromas.