2019 Henri Bourgeois - Sancerre ROUGE ES-56 (750ml)

The Bourgeois family has farmed the vineyards of Sancerre for ten generations, based in the village of Chavignol and now guided by Jean-Marie and Rémi Bourgeois. Over decades the family expanded across a mosaic of parcels throughout Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, working each site individually to reflect its particular soil, whether flint, limestone clay, or Kimmeridgian marl. This dedication has made the estate one of the appellation's most recognized names for both Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

ES-56 comes from old Pinot Noir vines planted in Saint-Satur, on a terroir of flint formed during the Eocene epoch some fifty-six million years ago, the source of the cuvée's name. Grapes ferment in vat for ten to fourteen days with regular punch-downs and pump-overs to draw out color and tannin, followed by malolactic fermentation and ten to twelve months of aging in Tronçais oak barrels before bottling.

The wine shows a deep ruby and garnet color, with aromas of morello cherry and plum accented by a touch of vanilla. Low yields give it real concentration and structure, along with strong aging potential. Its power calls for bold, well-spiced fare such as duck breast, venison, or aged hard cheeses.