What type of wine is Sancerre wine?

When it comes to choosing a special wine, whether it’s as a gift, an investment, or for personal enjoyment, even experienced wine drinkers can struggle. This is made even more difficult when we journey into the world of fine wine, as there are thousands of variations from around the world that offer unique drinking experiences. In this post, we’re examining the origins and taste of Sancerre wine.

What is Sancerre wine?

Sancerre wine comes from the French town of the same name in the North East of the country. It resides in the Loire Valley, which is a region that has long been dedicated to the production of quality French wines. However, much of the appellation (area that produces wine) of Sancerre is along the left bank of the Loire River that runs through the region. Sancerre wine consists of either Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir (red and rose). However, it is the white wine that this appellation is most famous for producing. We recommend looking for wines produced in the Chavignol, Ménétréol, and Bué areas for the best quality fine wine.

Is Sancerre a dry wine?

One of the defining aspects of Sancerre wines is their light, dry style. When coupled with the minerality and freshness that comes with these fine wines, the result is a variety that’s exceedingly drinkable. Sancerre is most commonly a bright and acidic fine white wine, although Sancerre Rouge and Sancerre Rose are highly sought after as well.

What makes Sancerre wine special

The grapes used in Sancerre wines are grown in a semi-continental climate, complete with limestone hills, regular sun, and rich mineral water. This dry white wine sports an astonishingly light freshness which is perfect for drinking on its own or paired with refined flavours. The tasing notes for Sancerre white wine typically include flavours of:

• Thyme.
• Peach.
• Green apple.
• Pear.
• Honeysuckle.
• Lemon and lime.
• Chives.
• Chamomile.
• Gooseberries.
• Yellow plum.

As with any speciality wine, the body and flavour of the drink can vary between years and due to the techniques employed. One of the most significant impacts is if the Sancerre wine is aged in oak, which adds a mineral depth to the finish.

Finally, if you’re looking to buy fine wine to have with a meal, Sancerre wine is a great option. It is very versatile when it comes to possible food pairings. For meat, chicken, salmon, pork chops, and turkey are great accompaniments. A classic green salad with cucumber, red onion, asparagus, leaves, peppers, and avocado work well with the freshness of the wine. Most of the common French cheeses also prove to be a good combination with Sancerre, as well as feta or cream cheese.

Which Sancerre wine is best?

Although Sancerre wines are only produced in a small area of France, there are many different types and styles of the wine available to collectors or for the purposes of corporate gifting. Most Sancerre wines have complex flavour profiles, a herbaceous finish, striking colours, and a medium to full body. It’s the individual nuances of each wine that set them apart and help us match them to any particular event or recipient.

Fine wine available for delivery

While we may be based in the North West, Jean Juviniere has connections to vineyards across Europe. This has been built up naturally over time through the passion Steven and his family have put into finding exciting wine. Our goal is to make unique types of wine such as Sancerre wine more available as fine wine gifts for friends and family. If you have any questions about our delivery information, or how to buy fine wine as a corporate gift, don’t hesitate to get in touch.