Claude Riffault 2022 Sancerre Les Chasseignes

Stéphane Riffault, Claude Riffault's son, is turning out Sancerre bottlings that are the envy of many producers twice his age. Stéphane studied in Beaune and then learned with Olivier Leflaive in Burgundy. After his time in Burgundy, the vintner went to Bordeaux, where he stayed for some years at Château Angélus, and returned to Sancerre in 2001. When his father Claude retired, Stéphane took over the winery, and converted the vineyards to organic and biodynamic. He has become one of the most sought-after producers in the region.

Les Chasseignes comes from vines just north of the village of Sury-en-Vaux, and is named for the shallow limestone soils that give the wine its tension and intense minerality. 

Racy and bright but with a power and persistence that can surprise given its subtle character. Aged on the lees for 14 months in oak, it opens with a clear, bright yet deep, intense and concentrated bouquet of crushed stones, lemon oil and a hint of fresh oak that disappears with air.

Silky, round and very elegant on the palate, this is a full-bodied, wide, intense and juicy yet pure and stimulating Sancerre with remarkable finesse and lingering salinity. The long and complex finish reveals concentration, very fine tannins and the mouthwatering taste of crushed limestones. Refreshing lime and lemon notes on the aftertaste. A gorgeous wine with chalky veins and the vibration of great terroir. 

95pts Parker's Wine Advocate
Exhibiting a delicate, subtle bouquet of oak reduction, white orchard fruits and flowers, the 2022 Sancerre Les Chasseignes possesses a medium to full-bodied, satiny and deep palate with a seamless texture, a fleshy core of fruit and a long, saline, ethereal finish. Matured for 14 months in barrels, this Sancerre, crafted from vines planted on chalky soils at the top of hillsides facing northeast, is simply stunning.

750ml