Producer: Domaine Alain Gueneau
Wine: 2023 Sancerre Rosé
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes: This wine presents a delicate light salmon hue, inviting with aromas of ripe nectarines and white-fleshed fruit, underscored by honeydew and citrus notes that hint at a chalky soil. On the palate, it bursts with vibrant red fruit, complemented by subtle nuances of grapefruit and lemon peel, all harmoniously balanced with well-integrated minerality. The mid-palate is lively and energetic, leading to a refreshingly dry and racy finish that lingers enticingly. Winner!
Food: Excellent summer aperitif with charcuterie boards, fig and goat cheese tart, fried chicken, grilled halibut with fresh peach salsa, niçoise salad, and raspberry cheesecake.
Cellaring: Drink now
DOMAINE GUENEAU
Sury-en-Vaux, Sancerre
Covering 37 acres of sloping vineyards, the Gueneau estate is located in Sury-en-Vaux, Sancerre and Chavignol. The family owned and operated domaine was passed down to Alain from his parents. Today, Alain's daughter Elisa is the winemaker and manages the property herself. The prime vineyards are planted mostly with Sauvignon Blanc with small quantities of Pinot Noir. 80% of the estate is composed of “terres blanches” or white earth. The remaining 20% is made up of “caillottes”, soil strewn with tiny stones. The vines are pruned in single Guyot style. To combat erosion on very steep plots, grass is grown between the rows of vines except for a narrow strip at their base which is worked regularly. Environmentally friendly techniques are used based on necessity and climatic conditions. Elisa produces artisan and classic wines true to the Sancerre style and terroir.
