2022 Sancerre 'Grande Cuvee' Domaine Balland

This Grande Cuvee from Balland has been specially selected from the finest parcels within the

Balland has long been our favourite Sancerre producer and this is one of the best they have made. A superb Sancerre from a special parcel that is harvested a little later to gain more weight and then aged in oak, a small percentage of which is new. This is rich with peach and nectarine alongside the more classical, delicate, herbaceous fruit. Textured, rich and long, minerally too, this is seriously impressive, wonderful with smoked salmon and quite rich starters.

The Domaine Balland Sancerre Grande Cuvée is 100% Sauvignon Blanc sourced from a few specially selected parcels of just 2 hectares of clay and limestone pebbles. 60% of the wine is fermented and aged in 600L new oak barrels which gently coat the wine adding incredible depth and complexity. The remaining 40% is aged and matured in stainless steel. The wine is matured for 12 months with regular bâtonnage before bottling. To the nose there are initial aromas of exotic fruits such as mango and lychee alongside fresh scents of lime blossom and verbena. As the nose develops more complex aromas come to the fore with brioche, white peach and citrus supported by notes of sweet spices. The palate is full flavoured, rich and elegant with ripe mango fruits, quince jelly, spice and subtle notes of honey.