What is Sancerre Wine?

Is it a wine?

Is it a region? 

In the heart of the Loire Valley, the Sancerre region has developed a reputation for crafting premium, high-quality white wines, notably from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. 

Pronouncing "Sancerre" is relatively straightforward. It's said as "san-sair." Think of it as two syllables: the first, "san," sounds like the beginning of "sandal," and the second, "sair," rhymes with "fair."

The Sancerre wine region is situated in a unique setting where its terroir plays a pivotal role in the quality of its wines. The area is known for its diverse soils – chalky limestone, flint, and clay – each contributing distinct flavors to the wines. These soils, coupled with the region's semi-continental climate, create an ideal environment for growing Sauvignon Blanc.

In Sancerre, winemaking techniques focus on highlighting the natural elegance and aromas of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Rather than using oak barrels, winemakers prefer stainless steel or aged casks, which leads to wines that are less about fruitiness and more about minerality. This contrasts with the bolder fruit flavors and aromas typical of New World Sauvignon Blancs from regions like Marlborough or California.

Meanwhile, other Loire Valley appellations, like Pouilly-Fumé, also create noteworthy Sauvignon Blanc wines. The differing soil compositions and microclimates across these regions result in a range of wine styles and flavors. For instance, Pouilly-Fumé is particularly known for its smoky notes, thanks to its flint-rich soil.

The unique blend of Sancerre's terroir, climate, and winemaking approach culminates in a Sauvignon Blanc that stands out from others, offering subtler flavors and a distinct mineral character. This distinctiveness sets Sancerre apart not only within the Loire Valley but also in the global wine landscape

Due to the landscape in which it is grown-- and unlike the herbal, vegetal notes produced from Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand --- Sancerre wines are known for their crisp acidity, minerality, and more refined structure. Sancerre wines offer a complex compilation of flavors, including grass, chive, anise, chamomile, and thyme, alongside citrus notes like lime, Meyer lemon, and pink grapefruit. These wines also exhibit nuances of flint, straw, and a touch of smoke, creating a satisfying tasting experience.

Sancerre's general profile makes it a versatile wine to pair with a number of kosher dishes. The citrus driven notes with minerality make it a no-brainer to pair with roast chicken, grilled fish and veggies. The acidity also cuts through a rich creamy cheese, like goat cheeses and brie. 

In the kosher wine market, Sancerre's production volume is relatively modest each year, influencing its price. Despite being higher-priced, Sancerre is highly sought after and often sells out quickly, so it's advisable to grab a bottle when available.

For those interested in similar styles, wines from neighboring regions in the Loire Valley offer a comparable taste experience. An example is Domaine De Panquelaine,. The estate produces a quality Sancerre, but also bottles a Sauvignon Blanc using grapes sourced from just outside the Sancerre appellation, offering a taste reminiscent of Sancerre's unique profile. This alternative provides an opportunity to explore similar flavors at potentially different price points and availability.

If you have questions about Sancerre and want to learn more or need advice on selecting the perfect bottle, don't hesitate to contact a wine consultant at KosherWine.com. Our experts are ready to guide you through the world of Sancerre and help you find a wine that fits your taste and preferences.