Isabelle Garrault Les Grands Monts Sancerre
The Garrault family has been making wine in Sancerre for over 10 generations. The grapes for Isabelle Garrault Sancerre come from vineyards located in the village of Verdigny, on the hillsides of the right bank of the Loire River. The vineyards are planted on Kimmeridgian limestone soils, which give the wine its characteristic minerality. This particular wine is their flagship wine made from vines 50+ years old.The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures to preserve their freshness and aromas. The wine is then aged on its lees for a few months before being bottled.
Isabelle Garrault Les Grands Monts Sancerre 2020
Pours into the glass a pale straw hue, hinting at its crisp and youthful character. Hints of green glisten at the edges, suggesting vibrant acidity and freshness. The bouquet bursts with classic Sauvignon Blanc aromas, layered and alluring. A medley of citrus fruits takes center stage, dominated by zesty grapefruit and lime zest, followed by juicy white peach and delicate apricot undertones. A whisper of fresh-cut grass and white floral notes adds complexity, while a hint of wet stone minerality provides a subtle earthiness. The first sip confirms the initial impressions, with a light to medium body balanced with a bringing a vibrant acidity & zesty citrus. Juicy grapefruit and lemon dance on the tongue, alongside notes of green apple and pear. The mid-palate reveals a surprising depth, with hints of honeydew melon and ripe quince emerging alongside a touch of white pepper spice. The minerality is more pronounced here, lending a delightful chalky texture that lingers on the finish. The finish is long and satisfying, with the citrus and mineral notes lingering beautifully. A touch of green tea bitterness emerges, adding complexity and intrigue. The overall impression is one of clean, elegant minerality and mouthwatering freshness.
This 2020 Isabelle Garrault Les Grands Monts Sancerre is a quintessential expression of the Sauvignon Blanc grape from this renowned terroir. It offers a stunning balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality, making it a perfect choice for seafood dishes, summer salads, or simply enjoying on its own. Its youthful vibrancy promises potential for aging, suggesting it might develop even more intriguing layers of complexity with time.
