2022 Sancerre Blanc, Daniel Chotard, Loire

Sauvignon Blanc can be a bit marmite among wine drinkers, but this bottle will happily charm everyone around the table. I was delighted by its delicate fresh lemon, uplifting Cox’s apple, and smooth-set honey edge, which sat beautifully alongside a steely, mineral finish. This is a seriously grown-up but effortlessly enjoyable wine.

Rosamund Hall, Tinsel and Tipples (December 2024)

Tasting note

In recent years, Simon’s Sancerre Blanc has become more serious and “grown-up”. With organic farming methods, lower yields and the large oak and acacia casks for fermenting and ageing 40% of the wine, there is greater depth and complexity than expected from a wine at this price point.

The nose is subtle and discreet, with delicate floral top notes over citrus and stone fruit. The palate is initially rich and generous, with creamy, honeyed notes filling the mouth before a tingling, steely freshness arrives. Mint and spicy gunflint notes linger at the finish, leaving a cooling, almost mentholated sensation.

Adam Bruntlett, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd