Domaine de la Garenne ‘La Billette’ Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc - Loire Valley, France
Tense, mineral and distinctly smoky, La Billette is a focused single-vineyard Sancerre that showcases Sauvignon Blanc’s affinity for Sancerre’s flint-rich soils. Aromas of crushed citrus, green apple and white peach are layered with notes of wet stone, smoke and struck flint. The palate is dry and finely structured, opening with a subtle generosity before bright acidity and pronounced mineral tension take hold. Persistent and precise, the finish is long, clean and distinctly savoury.
The fruit comes exclusively from the 0.5-hectare La Billette parcel, where approximately 35-year-old Sauvignon Blanc vines grow on clay and flint soils. Domaine de la Garenne farms the site organically, incorporating biodynamic practices, natural ground cover, careful soil cultivation and controlled yields. Grapes are harvested by hand before fermentation and maturation on the fine lees in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. With an annual production of just 3,500 bottles, this is a concentrated and highly distinctive expression of one of Sancerre’s most evocative terroirs.
Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Style: White – Dry, medium-bodied, intensely mineral and finely structured
Drink Window: Now – 7 years
Perfect For: Oysters, langoustines, prawns, moules marinières, grilled white fish, goat’s cheese and citrus-dressed vegetable dishes
A compelling terroir-driven Sancerre that moves beyond simple fruit, combining Sauvignon Blanc’s natural freshness with remarkable flinty intensity, texture and length.
