The history of the Sancerre vineyards dates back to classical antiquity and is mentioned in the writings of historical figures such as Pliny the Elder. Yet it was only in the 12th century that the vineyards experienced considerable growth, due to the monks of Saint-Satur and the Counts of Sancerre. Mainly planted with the Pinot Noir grape variety, the vineyards were completely destroyed at the end of the 19th century when they were ravaged by phylloxera (a parasitic aphid that attacks the roots of the vine). This is how Sauvignon Blanc, specifically adapted to the climate of Sancerre, came to find its preferred setting and its favourite terroir today.

The vineyards of Sancerre are currently the subject of a bid for UNESCO World Heritage status. This project which is ongoing, unites the whole territory and is pushing local stakeholders to highlight and promote Sancerre’s assets.

The appellation is spread across 14 communes (Bannay, Bué, Crézancy, Menetou-Ratel, Montigny, Saint-Satur, Sainte-Gemme, Sancerre, Sury en Vaux, Thauvenay, Veaugues, Verdigny and Vinon) and 3 hamlets (Amigny, Chavignol and Maimbray) surrounding the Sancerre hill. Three distinctly different soil profiles are to be found:

-To the west of the appellation area, clay and limestone Kimmeridgian marls form the “terres blanches” (“white soils”) that lend a wonderful roundness to the wine.

-In the centre of the appellation area, the stony “caillottes” slopes are predominantly limestone, bringing a powerful minerality to the wine.

-To the east of the appellation area, the more flinty soils add a minerally taste of gunflint.

The vineyards of Sancerre are planted on hillsides that are well-oriented, superbly exposed to sunshine and yet protected from the wind.

The climate in Sancerre is oceanic, with average temperatures of 2 to 6°C in winter and 22 to 25°C in summer. This climate, with its distinct seasons, produces wines in which the most perfect harmony reigns: fresh, delicious, and rich in aroma.

Sauvignon Blanc, the appellation’s emblematic grape variety, has found its preferred terroir here, producing the iconic white wines of Sancerre, a name synonymous with excellence. The Sauvignon Blanc grape produces fresh, subtle, crisp, aromatic and expressive wines with aromas of citrus and tropical fruits, revealing a wonderful minerality that is the expression of the Sancerre terroir.

The Pinot Noir grape variety is used to make the red and rosé wines of the appellation. The red Sancerres highlight the qualities of the Pinot Noir grape, expressing elegance, finesse and balance, accompanied by a superb complexity and delicate harmony, with notes of red and black fruits on the palate. It is a sensual and charming grape variety. The rosé wines are crisp and succulent, generous and refreshing, with floral notes and hints of red fruit. These wines are a delight to all lovers of gastronomy.