Sancerre Wine: Why it's the Best White Wine in the World

Sancerre wine is the best white wine in the world… according to me =)

It’s my favorite white wine, and I’m aware there are several other fantastic whites that I also enjoy a lot. But if I had to select one, it would be the Sancerre.

It has a distinct flavor that is different than any other white wine out there. It is made in the Loire Valley of France, and is known for its mineral-rich soils and cool climate. Sancerre wines are typically dry, with a bright acidity and flavors of citrus, herbs, and flint.

In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know about Sancerre wine, including where it is made, what it tastes like, and our top 7 picks for the best Sancerre wines!

What is Sancerre?

Sancerre is a dry white wine that is made from Sauvignon Blanc. It is produced in the Loire Valley of France, and has been around since the 16th century.

The climate in the Loire Valley is cooler than other wine regions in France, which helps to produce a crisp and refreshing wine. The soils in the region are also very chalky and mineral-rich, which gives the wines a unique flavor. Sancerre wines are typically light-bodied with high acidity. They have flavors of citrus, herbs, and flint.

Where is Sancerre From?

Sancerre is from the Loire Valley in France. The Loire Valley is a large wine-growing region that stretches from west to central France. The area of the Loire Valley comprises about 800 square kilometres.

The Loire Valley, located in the center of France, is one of the world’s most well-known wine-producing areas and comprises numerous French wine regions situated along the river from Muscadet on the Atlantic coast to Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé east of Orléans.

It is known for its cool climate and mineral-rich soils, which create a unique flavor profile for Sancerre wines.

What Does Sancerre Wine Taste Like?

Citrus, Flinty (Mineral), Acidic, Refreshing, and Crisp!

Sancerre wines are typically dry, with a bright acidity and flavors of citrus, herbs, and flint. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in the Loire Valley create a distinct flavor that is different than any other white wine out there.

What does "flinty" mean?

Think wet pebbles.

Flint is a form of the mineral quartz. And it has been used to make stone tools and weapons for millions of years.

Flinty flavors are often found in wines from the Loire Valley. The soils in this region contain a high amount of limestone, which gives the wines a mineral flavor that is reminiscent of flint.

Sounds delicious right? And it is! =)

What Type of Wine is Sancerre?

Sancerre is a dry white wine that is made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

Is Sancerre the Same as Sauvignon Blanc?

Yes and No.

Sancerre is a region in France. Sauvignon Blanc is a wine varietal.

All Sancerre is Sauvignon Blanc, but not all Sauvignon Blancs are produced in Sancerre.

Is Sancerre Wine Dry or Sweet?

Sancerre wine is dry. It is not a sweet wine. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes that are used to make Sancerre wines are picked at full ripeness, which creates a dry and refreshing wine. There is often a slight sweetness that is balanced by the high acidity in Sancerre wines.

Sancerre vs Other Sauvignon Blanc

To make things simple, lets lump all other Sauvignon Blancs together.

In general, Sancerre has citrus and flinty(mineral) notes. And other New World Sauvignon Blanc wines have tropical fruit and grassy notes.

What Foods To Pair Sancerre With?

#1) Sushi

#2) Oysters

#3) Sweetbread

Sancerre pairs well with many different types of food. It is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with seafood, poultry, and vegetarian dishes. Pair them with the herbs of the dish or just enjoy on its own.

What are my Top 7 Favorite Sancerre Wine?

Good Sancerre will generally cost between $20 and $50 per bottle. Here are some of my favorites that are accessible and affordable in the United States market

1) Domaine Vacheron Sancerre

This Sancerre is produced by one of the most well-known and respected wineries in the region. The Domaine Vacheron Sancerre has aromas of citrus and white flowers, with flavors of grapefruit, minerals, and lemon. It is a dry and refreshing wine that pairs well with seafood or poultry dishes.

2) Sylvain Bailly Terroirs Sancerre 2020

The Sylvain Bailly Terroirs Sancerre is a great example of a classic Sancerre wine. It has aromas and flavors of citrus, herbs, and flint. The high acidity makes it a refreshing and crisp wine that pairs well with food.

3) Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Blanc 2020

The Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc is a beautiful wine that is very accessible in most wine stores in the US. It has aromas of grapefruit, citrus, and white flowers. The flavors are of lemon, minerals, and herbs. Its a great wine to bring to your next summer BBQ or outdoor event.

4) J. de Villebois Sancerre Blanc 2019

This Sancerre is a blend of the three most famous Sancerre terroirs. It has a rich bouquet and a complex flavor. It has rich ripe fruit characteristics and earthy aromas. A new world-style Sancerre, yet authentically terroir dependent.

5) Jean-Paul Balland Sancerre Blanc

You can find this wine at Trader Joe’s every now and then. Jean-Paul Balland is a family-owned estate with 48 acres of vineyards in some of the world’s best sites for producing outstanding Sauvignon Blanc.

The wine has scents of peach, white blooms, and citrus. The flavors are concentrated and pure on the palate, with lemon and peach balanced by distinct minerality and crisp acidity.

6) Domaine de la Villaudière Sancerre 2020

On the nose, it’s a floral fragrance with white peach and exotic fruit scents (pineapple, passion fruit).The wine is well-balanced with freshness and strong, long-lasting acidity on the finish.

7) Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Les Baronnes Blanc 2020

This white wine is pure and elegant, with orange and citrus undertones highlighted by notes of fresh herb, white blossom, spice, and flint. An excellent match for fish or poultry cuisine.

Summary

I hope you enjoy exploring Sancerre wines as much as I have.

If you are interested in other white wines, we rank them here… click here.