Alain Girard & Fils Domaine des Brosses Sancerre 2023

Established in 1875, Domaine des Brosses lies 10 kilometres south of Sancerre and was modernised by the Girard family, who took over the winery, and its 11 hectares of vineyards, in 1973. Nicolas Girard, who now runs the estate, travelled extensively in search of the world's finest Sauvignon Blancs and the best techniques for tending these vines. He has applied this knowledge to Domaine des Brosses’ vineyards on the hillsides around the village of Veaugues. These vines are particularly prized for their naturally well-draining soils and southern exposure.

In total, there are six parcels of vines, each imparting slightly different nuances to the finished wine, which is aged on its fine lees for several months to add weight to the palate. The wine has aromas of white flowers, pear and apricots, coupled with a racy acidity typical of Sancerre.

Nicolas also crafts an exceptional Quincy from vineyards near Brinay, planted on sandy gravel soils, as well as a Menetou-Salon from vineyards near Humbligny and Morogues, planted on ‘terres blanches’ clay soils. Both wines are fermented at cool temperatures to preserve Sauvignon Blanc's bright aromatics, before being aged for four to six months on their lees, resulting in a rich, creamy texture on the palate.