Gerard Boulay, Sancerre, Clos de Beaujeu

ORGANIC (UNCERTIFIED) / LOW SULPHITE

This Sancerre is crafted from 30 to 60-year-old vines, from a steep southeast-facing vineyard. Vinified in cuve and aged exclusively in 3-4-year-old 300-litre barrels, it has magnificent aging potential and will be great from now to 2030 and beyond. The 2020 vintage is characterised by both opulence and freshness, with a medium yellow hue and a reductive, smoky nose with notes of passion fruit, yoghurt, grapefruit, pine and hay. Its full-bodied, waxy texture is complemented by juicy citrus acidity, while grassy bitters and a slatey minerality round out the finish. Complex, elegant and finessed, this is a great single-vineyard Sancerre. 

Gérard Boulay, a Loire icon, oversees 11 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc vineyards in Chavignol and Amigny. His vines, averaging over 45yo, are meticulously selected and densely planted, with Gérard eschewing the use of herbicides and pesticides, and often preferring hand-harvesting. He favours smaller yields (20% lower than the appellation average), using no added yeasts or enzymes, minimal sulphur additions and natural fermentation. His remarkable collection of terroirs embody the Boulay family's deep-rooted legacy - dating back to the 1300s, and their holdings are an absolute gem of the region. 

Origin: Sancerre, Loire, France
Vintage: 2020
Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Food pairing: Rich dishes, pork, duck, cheese, creamy sauces
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 13.5%