Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Pinot Noir Rouge 2022

Winery Background and History

Established over ten generations ago, Domaine Henri Bourgeois is a family-run estate located in Chavignol, within the Sancerre region of France. The Bourgeois family has dedicated itself to producing exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines, cultivating a mosaic of plots across 72 hectares. Their commitment to expressing the unique terroirs of Kimmeridgian Marl, Silex, and Limestone Clays has positioned them as one of the leading producers in the Loire Valley.

Producer and Winemaker

The Bourgeois family, including Jean-Marie Bourgeois and his sons Arnaud, Lionel, and Jean-Christophe, oversees both vineyard management and winemaking processes. Their collective expertise and passion ensure that each wine reflects the family’s dedication to quality and tradition. Emphasizing minimal intervention, they allow the unique characteristics of each terroir to shine through in their wines.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Pinot Noir vines for this Sancerre Rouge are planted on chalky-clay soils, ideal for expressing the grape’s finesse and aromatic richness. The Sancerre region’s continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters, provides optimal conditions for Pinot Noir cultivation, contributing to the wine’s complexity and balance. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation begins with a 12-day maceration at temperatures between 26 to 32°C, during which the cap is punched and the must is pumped over twice daily to extract maximum color and tannins. Post-malolactic fermentation, the wine is matured for 6 to 8 months in oak barrels sourced from the Tronçais, Bertranges, and Limousin forests, with one-third of the barrels replaced annually. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Specific ABV information for the 2022 vintage is not available.

Tasting Notes

The bouquet is marked by Morello cherry, violet, and subtle wood notes. With aging, it develops aromas of game, truffle, and cherries in brandy. On the palate, it reveals good roundness and a light, pleasant astringency, with tannins from both the grapes and the oak barrels, ensuring good aging potential. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Sancerre Rouge pairs excellently with braised and pan-sautéed white or red meats. Glazed roast meats are a perfect match, offering pure pleasure.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and structural nuances, serve this wine at 16-18°C (60-65°F). Decanting for about an hour before serving can enhance its expressive character, allowing it to open up and reveal its layered flavors. Using large, tulip-shaped red wine glasses will further elevate the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

With proper cellaring conditions—cool, dark, and stable environments—this wine can gracefully age for 8 to 10 years from the vintage date. Over time, it will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of game, truffle, and cherries in brandy complementing its existing flavor profile.