The village of Chavignol stands out among Sancerre communes for the intensity of its wines. Les Monts Damnés is a famous vineyard on a steep slope above the commune with a perfect exposure. Sauvignon Blancs from Chavignol, and Monts Damnés in particular, rank among the most distinctive in the world. Thomas-Labailles’s 2018 Sancerre Les Monts Damnés is drawn from 30-year-old vines 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 lily, pear and fresh herbs. The flavors of mouthwatering citrus and apple fruits are backed by subtle floral and herbal hints. The texture is creamy and offers remarkable richness for a Sauvignon Blanc wine. 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) Sauvignon Blanc 2018
By Wayne Belding