Domaine Francois Crochet, Sancerre Rouge, Loire, France, 2023

Producer Profile

To the south-west of the town of Sancerre lies the tiny commune of Bué, where you will find François Crochet single-handedly managing his 10ha of vineyard.

Doing much of the work in the vineyards himself, François is committed to hand-harvesting to maintain the quality of the resulting wine. Though he is unable to make enough to keep pace with demand, these wines are some of the most precise and refined Sancerres you will ever taste.

Viticulture

With vines averaging around 30 years of age, the estate spans more than thirty individual plots across Bué, Sancerre, Crézancy and Thauvenay, with further parcels recently added by Carine’s family in Verdigny and Sury-en-Vaux. Yields are kept naturally low through careful vineyard work, including selective spring bud removal and, where needed, meticulous green harvesting. Every grape is harvested by hand, a true reflection of the estate’s small scale and deeply hands-on philosophy. François is closely involved at every stage, personally overseeing – and often carrying out – much of the vineyard work himself, an impressive commitment given the fragmented nature of the holdings. All vineyards are certified organic and farmed with a thoughtful, biodynamically inspired approach.

Winemaking

Pinot Noir grapes arrive at the winery in small 40 kg boxes and are meticulously sorted before destemming. They are then moved by belt to avoid bruising, followed by a period of cold maceration to enhance aromatic expression. Fermentation proceeds at controlled temperatures, with the juice naturally running after several days of maceration. Gentle, progressive pressing ensures exceptional purity.

Tasting Note

A refined and expressive Pinot Noir, showing bright red fruit aromas of cherry, strawberry and raspberry, complemented by subtle spice and earthy undertones. The palate is supple and fresh, with fine tannins and balanced acidity, delivering elegance rather than power. With age, it gains complexity while retaining clarity and finesse.

Food matching

A natural partner for roast poultry, veal, duck breast or fine charcuterie. Its freshness and fine tannins also suit vegetarian dishes and lightly spiced cuisine.