Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Les Cotes Aux Valets Blanc 2019

Winery Background and History

Domaine Henri Bourgeois is a family-owned winery rooted in Chavignol, a village within the Sancerre appellation of France’s Loire Valley. Spanning ten generations, the Bourgeois family has dedicated itself to producing Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines that express the unique terroirs of the region. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques has solidified their reputation as leading vintners in Sancerre. 

Producer and Winemaker

The Bourgeois family oversees all aspects of production, combining their ancestral knowledge with modern practices to craft wines that reflect the distinct characteristics of their vineyards. This hands-on approach ensures that each bottle embodies the family’s dedication to quality and authenticity.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Les Côtes aux Valets” vineyard was planted in 1986 on a 1.06-hectare plot characterized by chalky-clay soils known as “Bannon,” located in the village of Vinon, south of Sancerre. This terroir imparts a unique mineral quality to the wine. The microclimate, influenced by the Loire River, provides optimal conditions for ripening Sauvignon Blanc grapes, balancing acidity and aromatic expression.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal maturity. They undergo slow pressing at low pressure for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The must is cold-settled on lees at 8°C, with daily tastings determining the duration of cold stabilization. Lees are resuspended daily for four days to enhance texture and aromatic potential. Alcoholic fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks over about 30 days, starting at 15°C and gradually reaching 19°C. The first racking takes place between 5 to 15 days after fermentation concludes.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Specific ABV information for the 2019 vintage is not provided in the available sources.

Tasting Notes

The wine presents a fine and discreet nose with initial notes of dried fruits, almonds, and pistachios. Upon aeration, it reveals aromas of citrus, orange zest, and mirabelle plum, complemented by mineral and iodine nuances. On the palate, it offers a supple attack with remarkable roundness and a pronounced mineral texture. The finish is fresh and saline, featuring hints of mirabelle plum and citrus zest. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Sancerre pairs well with pork, seafood, or spicy dishes. Suggested pairings include salted pumpkin crumble, ham puff pastry, or eggplant tartare.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serving temperature recommendations are not specified in the available sources.

Storage and Aging Potential

“Les Côtes aux Valets” can develop additional body and complexity over 3 to 5 years of aging.