Sancerre

Sancerre is a French wine AOC (controlled designation of origin) for wine produced in the Sancerre geographical area, located in the eastern part of the Loire Valley.  The area is well known today for the Sauvignon blanc grape that comes from vines planted after a phylloxera epidemic late in the late 19^th century wiped out the majority of the vineyards in the region.

The history of Sancerre wine dates back to the beginning of the Middle Ages, but there is some uncertainty about its exact origins.  Some historians credit Julius Caesar (100 – 44BC), while others believe it was first developed within a Saxon settlement established during the reign of Charlemagne, aka Charles the Great (742 – 814).  Beginning in the late 1940’s, Sancerre gained popularity as an easy to drink, elegant, and food friendly white wine as it pairs well with fish, cheese and even sushi. According to AOC regulations, only Sauvignon blanc and Pinot noir are permitted as AOC classified Sancerre wines.

It’s a Zola favorite—light and smooth with low alcohol content and no hint of oak or grassy taste. Always reliable for serving at parties, lunch or dinner (especially a seafood course), and fun to try different styles.  Prices for a good bottle in US usually run in the $25+ range, but lower and higher can also be found. Here are a few of the best Flabby Wine Club finds  (so far, because the tasting never stops).

Information/Resources:
Loire Valley, Discover France website ( information on the food, wine, châteaux, music festivals and parks and recreation of Loire Valley)
Wine and Gastronomy:  A Sancerre Way of Life, Visit French Wine website (recommendations on how best to enjoy Sancerre in the Loire Valley)

You’ll have the best experience with this walking tour guide to Zola’s favorite wine tasting spots in Yountville, California

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Feature photo of grapes courtesy of Pixabay/Pexels CC0