DB Sutton & Co Wine Shop
Domaine Vacheron Sancerre “Chambrates” 2021
Domaine Vacheron Sancerre “Chambrates” 2021
Domaine Vacheron is one of Sancerre’s elite properties, producing both white,
pink, and red Sancerre of amazing purity and definition. The domaine has been
completely converted to biodynamic farming (certified by Biodyvin in 2005)
with two young cousins, Jean-Laurent and Jean- Dominique Vacheron, at the
helm. No synthetic material is used in the vineyard, harvests are carried out
exclusively by hand, and the only fertilizer used is produced from the compost
pile. Yields are kept extremely low. Having inherited some of the most coveted
parcels in the appellation (and being smart about current land purchases), the
cousins are trying a Burgundian approach to Sancerre winemaking, with parcels
being vinified by terroir and blends varying from year to year. Pinot Noir is not
an afterthought chez Vacheron, but a focus, and on soils just a couple of hours
west of Burgundy, the cousins are making grand, expressive bottlings from the
variety.
Vacheron is mainly a “silex” producer. Silex (flint) is found primarily in the
eastern part of the appellation (and also across the river in Pouilly Fumé) and
almost all of Vacheron’s holdings are on this hard, minerally soil type. Flint
produces vertical, long-aging Sancerre bottlings and the Vacheron boys’ biggest
aim is to let this shine.
Sancerre Chambrates
Chambrates is located on a plateau above Le Paradis on limestone and red clay
soils. This is a generous example of Sancerre due to its terroir with more of a
citric quality to the fruit, a richer texture and a mineral finish. It is fermented
and aged for 12 months in large French oak foudre.