COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2021
GRAPE
Sauvignon Blanc
PRODUCER
Domaine Claude Riffault
REGION
Loire
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Domaine Claude Riffault Sancerre Les Chailloux 2021 is a single-varietal Sauvignon Blanc from the Sancerre appellation in the Loire Valley. The 'Les Chailloux' vineyard is a specific parcel recognized for its distinctive flint soils, which are less prevalent in this part of Sancerre. This terroir contributes a pronounced minerality and a tightly-wound character to the wine. The Riffault family estate is now managed by Stéphane Riffault, who has transitioned the domaine to organic and biodynamic farming practices. His winemaking philosophy centers on showcasing the unique expression of each vineyard site and soil type, aiming to create wines that are singular and true to their origin.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
€40
STYLE
Natural
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
8-10°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Les Chailloux vineyard is known for its less common flint soils in northwestern Sancerre.
Fact 02
Vines for this cuvée are nearly 50 years old.
Fact 03
Domaine Claude Riffault has been certified organic since 2016.
Fact 04
Wines are aged on lees for over a year in neutral oak barrels.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process at Domaine Claude Riffault begins with meticulous vineyard management, adhering to organic and biodynamic principles. Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted. Fermentation is initiated by natural yeasts in stainless steel tanks or barrels, with malolactic fermentation intentionally avoided. The wine then undergoes an extended aging period on its lees for over a year, typically in large, neutral French oak barrels (tonneaux) or concrete tanks. This extended contact with the lees contributes to the wine's texture and complexity, while the use of neutral vessels ensures the purity of the fruit and minerality are preserved.
