Unfortunately, the poisonous phylloxera louse arrived in Europe from the US in the late 1800s, devastating vineyards across France. In the 19th century, vineyards were dominated by red varieties, mainly Gamay and Pinot Noir. However, white grapes are a relatively new arrival in Sancerre. It is a glorious place to visit, particularly with a glass of white wine in hand. Growers cultivate approximately 2800 hectares of vines, overwhelmingly planted to Sauvignon Blanc. Vineyards surround the eponymous town, a tranquil destination that possesses a timeless quality. The appellation is situated in central France, in the eastern Loire Valley sub-region. White Sancerre is one of France’s most iconic labels. The Loire Valley is also a region full of surprises: high-quality rosé and red wines are made from Pinot Noir in the appellation. However, few critics would deny that vines planted at high densities in Sancerre produce exquisitely fresh and aromatic wines, imbued with a minerality not commonly seen elsewhere. This has not escaped the attention of Sancerre’s winegrowers, who once held a virtual monopoly on the style. Indeed, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand has become a very persuasive household name in the UK. This has helped Sancerre to stay relevant, despite rising competition from New World white wine. The consumer is buying into a unique set of circumstances encompassing soil, climate and winemaking philosophy. Pourquoi? In French wine production, more complex traditions prevail – wines are generally marketed according to their origin. Yet the Sauvignon Blanc grape is seldom mentioned on the front label. Sancerre, found on the left bank of the Loire River in central Loire Valley, offers benchmark Sauvignon Blanc: pungent,
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