Impressions: The central region of the Loire is home to some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc the world over. While Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé enjoy the most fame, there are fantastic plots found throughout the region that don’t have an AOC attached to them, though the similarities can be striking. This is one such examples that opens with aromas of grapefruit pith, lemongrass, almond blossoms and wet stones. The palate is juicy with a stony minerality that leads towards a crisp, dry and pithy finish. Perfectly balanced and ready to pair with goat cheese and seafood entrees. 

About The Producer: Emile Balland’s estate includes a little bit of Sancerre, but eight of his nine hectares are in the Coteaux du Giennois on the other side of the river, a long riverside strip of mixed vineyards and farmland south of the town of Gien, and the most northerly of the Sauvignon Blanc dedicated appellations in this western quarter of the Loire. Emile farms organically and intervenes as little as possible, so his wines show off the shimmering energy native to the limestone soil.