Every now and then we come across a wine that lives up to just about everything we adore in the Mission wine department: amazing wine from a thoughtful producer in a beautiful bottle that defines the typicity of its regional character.
The 2019 "Les Herse" Silex Sancerre is an example of a wine that likely tastes far more interesting today than it did at the time of review (and the reviews were still good back then). Putting down Sauvignon Blanc to cellar isn't something we're used to in America, but the best Sancerre wines are capable of aging 5-10 years if not longer. Today we're focused on one such specimen.
In today's Loire Valley lore, few producers carry as much esteem and prestige as the late Didier Dagueneau, whose mineral-driven whites become a wine geek calling card in the aughts of the 21st century. Yet, what few know is that Dagueneau took inspiration from the Gitton family's "silix" flint slopes in Sancerre, having studied with Pascal Gitton himself in the 1990s before soaring to international fame. Both his philosophy and winemaking style was shaped by his time with Gitton in Sancerre.
Pascal's cellar of Sancerre dates back to the 1980s and his wines are legendary for their ability to age decades while maintaining freshness. The chalky white silex slopes of Gitton's property create Sauvignon Blanc wines with electricity and ample fruit, balancing suppleness with freshness in a style that continues to evolve over time. These bottles already have three-plus years of cellaring done for you. As good as the 2019 already tastes, expect it to continue gaining complexity.
92 POINTS: JAMES SUCKLING - Gooseberry, lime, nettle and juniper on the nose. It's medium-bodied with bright tangy acidity. Compact, mineral and sleek with saline and spice undertones. Drink now or hold.
91 POINTS: WINE ENTHUSIAST - Fruity, crisp and with good acidity, this wine is just settling into balance. Touches of the wood aging are there along with brightly herbal green-fruit flavors. The wine is rich, with acidity as well as hints of tropical fruits in the background. Drink now.