2019 Sancerre Rouge ‘Terres Blanche’

Domaine Roblin is found in the small village of Maimbray, just a stones throw north of Sancerre itself, and is run by two brothers – Matthias and Emile – who took over from their father to become the 4th generation of winemakers in their family. They have a total of 19ha of vines planted on ‘Terres Blanches’ (Kimmeridgian and Portlandian chalky clay, as found in prestigious areas of Burgundy), and just 15% of the vineyards are given over to Pinot Noir production. This wine is aged in barrel for 10 to 12 months post-fermentation and is bottled straight from the barrel without fining or filtration, which preserves the texture and quality of the wine.

Bursting with warm, red berry fruit and baking spice, this is a glorious example of Loire Pinot Noir at its finest. Ripe tannins are balanced by a fresh acidity and the use of oak in the ageing process has a softening influence. While it would make a great match for turkey and all the trimmings, this wine would also pair very well with meaty fish such as Salmon or Monkfish.