François Crochet Sancerre Rouge, France 2022

Sancerre is so renowned for Sauvignon Blanc that many people don't realize this Loire Valley region is also home to exceptional Pinot Noir. François Crochet is one of the most impressive producers in the famed appellation, situated on Sancerre's eastern edge in the village of Bué. The soils are rich in limestone here, lending a finesse to the wines that makes them distinct from those of the sandy soils to the west. From 2023, the vineyards have been certified both organic and biodynamic, and François has used only wild yeasts in the winery since 2019. All of his 12 hectares are harvested by hand before being whole-bunch pressed, making for pure, delicate fruit quality and impeccable clarity throughout the range.  The warm 2022 vintage brings out the elegant power of Pinot Noir produced from Sancerre's unique terroir. After de-stemming and a short cold soak, fermentation is carried out in stainless steel. The wine is then aged in ‘tronc conique’ oak vats for 18 months. No fining, filter