Elevate your wine experience with Paul & Jean-Marc Pastou Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre, a masterful expression of the Loire Valley's celebrated terroir. Crafted from 40+ year-old Sauvignon Blanc vines rooted in the flinty, limestone-rich soils of Sury-en-Vaux, this meticulously hand-harvested and sustainably farmed wine delivers remarkable depth. Fermented and aged on fine lees in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, it showcases vibrant aromas of lime, lemon zest, and a subtle smoky minerality. On the palate, enjoy crisp pear, grapefruit, and kumquat flavors, perfectly balanced with lively acidity and a refreshing finish. This elegant Sancerre is a testament to the Pastou family’s dedication to creating wines of purity, minerality, and exceptional character, ideal for pairing with fresh seafood, creamy cheeses, or simply to savor on its own.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the prestigious Sancerre region of the Loire Valley, this wine is produced from old vines (*vieilles vignes*), which add depth and complexity to its profile. It is fermented and aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks on fine lees, a method that preserves the purity and minerality of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. The region's flinty silex soils impart distinctive smoky and mineral notes, creating a wine that captures the essence of Sancerre’s renowned terroir.
Tasting Notes
Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre greets with inviting aromas of lime, lemon zest, and gooseberries, complemented by floral and flinty nuances. On the palate, it delivers a crisp and vibrant acidity balanced by a rich, smooth mouthfeel. Notes of blackcurrant, hinting at an herbal undertone, mingle with the hallmark minerality of Sancerre, culminating in a lingering, elegant finish.
What Makes It Special
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Old Vines: The "vieilles vignes" designation indicates grapes sourced from older vines, which contribute concentrated flavors and complexity.
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Terroir-Driven: The flinty soils and semi-continental climate of Sancerre infuse the wine with its signature smoky minerality and bright acidity.
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Winemaking Tradition: Fermentation and aging on fine lees in stainless steel tanks highlight the natural elegance and purity of the Sauvignon Blanc grape without overpowering oak influences.
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Renowned Appellation: Produced in the heart of Sancerre, one of the world's most respected Sauvignon Blanc regions, this wine is a benchmark for its style.
How to Enjoy
Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre is a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes:
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Perfect Pairings: Enjoy with goat cheese (*Crottin de Chavignol*), oysters, grilled fish, roasted chicken, or dishes featuring fresh herbs like chervil and thyme.
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Serving Tips: Serve chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) to fully appreciate its refreshing acidity and aromatic complexity.
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Occasions: Ideal for refined dinner parties, summer gatherings, or moments of quiet indulgence with a quality white wine.
Paul & Jean-Marc Pastou Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre is an exemplary choice for wine enthusiasts seeking the balance of vibrant fruit, minerality, and tradition in every sip. Indulge in a bottle to experience the charm of Sancerre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wine is Paul & Jean-Marc Pastou Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre?
This wine is a white wine made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes. It is a classic representation of Sancerre, offering a crisp and mineral-forward profile with balanced acidity and aromatic complexity.
Where is this wine produced?
This wine is produced in the Sancerre appellation of the Loire Valley, France. The region is renowned for its production of high-quality Sauvignon Blanc wines, grown on distinct soil types such as flint, limestone, and clay.
What are the tasting notes for this wine?
Paul & Jean-Marc Pastou Les Boucaults Vieilles Vignes Sancerre has fresh, inviting aromas of citrus fruits accentuated by floral and mineral notes. On the palate, it showcases a lively balance of crisp acidity, minerality, and a refined structure.
How is this wine aged and bottled?
This wine is fermented and aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks on fine lees, which enhances its texture and freshness. It is bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve its natural character and complexity.
What is the best way to serve this wine?
It is best served chilled at a temperature of around 8-10°C (46-50°F) to fully enjoy its crisp and refreshing qualities.
What foods pair well with this wine?
This Sancerre pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including grilled seafood, roasted chicken, goat cheese, and lightly seasoned vegetables. Its acidity makes it especially good at cutting through creamy or rich flavors.
What makes Sancerre wines unique compared to other Sauvignon Blancs?
Sancerre wines are distinguished by their subtle and refined minerality, bracing acidity, and elegant structure. Unlike New World Sauvignon Blancs, which may emphasize bold tropical fruit notes, Sancerre focuses on a balance of citrus, herbal aromas, and a mineral-driven finish.
Can this wine be aged?
Yes, while this wine can be enjoyed young for its vibrant freshness, high-quality Sancerre such as this can also develop additional complexity with 5-10 years of cellaring.
What does 'Vieilles Vignes' mean in the wine's name?
'Vieilles Vignes' translates to 'Old Vines' in French. It indicates that the wine is made from grapes harvested from older vines, which typically produce lower yields but more concentrated and complex flavors.
How does the soil type in Sancerre influence the wine?
The soils in Sancerre, such as flint (silex), limestone, and clay, significantly impact the wine’s flavor and texture. Flint contributes smoky, mineral notes, while limestone and clay add richness and structure. This combination results in the distinctive minerality and elegance that Sancerre is known for.