Wines Sancerre Beau Chêne - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Beau Chêne Sancerre Blanc is an excellent expression of Sauvignon Blanc from the prestigious Sancerre appellation, nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley’s Centre vineyards. This vintage reflects the region’s signature style, offering a bouquet of vibrant citrus, white flowers, and subtle hints of flint. On the palate, expect a racy minerality, crisp acidity, and a lively ensemble of lime, green apple, and grapefruit, underpinned by characteristic freshness. The Sancerre terroir, composed principally of ‘terres blanches’ (Kimmeridgian marl), caillottes (limestone pebbles), and silex (flint), imparts both finesse and a distinctive mineral-driven character to the wine. Vinification is traditionally executed in stainless steel tanks, preserving aromatic purity and the grape’s lively personality.

The Sancerre region is renowned for its rolling hills and diverse soils, which have been cultivated since Roman times. The climate here is semi-continental, with cool nights and sunny days fostering a perfect environment for Sauvignon Blanc’s slow, optimal ripening. The mosaic of soil types—clay-limestone, flint, and chalk—contribute to the complexity, precision, and elegance that have become synonymous with Sancerre’s white wines. This historic area has long captivated wine enthusiasts for its balance of vivacity and refined minerality.

A wine of this calibre deserves thoughtful food pairings. Its crisp acidity and pronounced minerality perfectly complement fresh goat’s cheese, such as the local Crottin de Chavignol, as well as simple seafood dishes—think oysters, prawns, or poached white fish with a hint of citrus. It also pairs beautifully with asparagus, salads featuring citrus vinaigrettes, or light poultry dishes. For a regional touch, enjoy with a warm goat’s cheese salad or river fish in beurre blanc.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8–10°C. Enjoy it in a tulip-shaped glass to fully appreciate its aromatic intensity. If possible, open the bottle a few minutes before serving to allow the bouquet to express its full range.