The village of Chavignol stands out among Sancerre communes for the intensity of its wines. The Kimmeridgian-age limestones of the village form soils that make Sauvignon Blancs from Chavignol among the most distinctive in the world. Thomas-Labailles’s 2020 Sancerre l’Authentique is drawn from 25-year-old vines in Chavignol and shows the intensity of the appellation. It has a wonderful combination of lemon, grapefruit and green apple fruit scents are followed by hints of flowers, pear and fresh herbs. The flavors of mouthwatering citrus and green apple fruits are backed by subtle floral and herbal hints. Chavignol is also noted for goat’s milk cheeses and a fresh Chèvre will be a perfect companion for this excellent Sancerre.
Claude and Florence Thomas-Labaille, Sancerre (Loire Valley, France) 2020
By Wayne Belding