Paul Thomas
Chavignol Sancerre Pinot Noir
Sancerre, Central Vineyards, Loire Valley, France
The thing about Sancerre, whether red or white, from Chavignol, is that the minerality overshadows the varietal character of the grapes . . . which is what makes its terroir unique. Here, the intense limestony minerality actually transforms the cherry fruit in the nose, rendering it quite confectionary. So chiseled and stony in the mouth. It’s a demanding profile. But the Pinot fruit is gamely tussling with the rocks, trying to make itself heard (just barely). Good acids. Just enough tannin to be felt. Paired it with a thrown-together chicken soup I made after work, because my stomach is in knots about the election and I couldn’t handle anything else.
The thing about Sancerre, whether red or white, from Chavignol, is that the minerality overshadows the varietal character of the grapes . . . which is what makes its terroir unique. Here, the intense limestony minerality actually transforms the cherry fruit in the nose, rendering it quite confectionary. So chiseled and stony in the mouth. It’s a demanding profile. But the Pinot fruit is gamely tussling with the rocks, trying to make itself heard (just barely). Good acids. Just enough tannin to be felt. Paired it with a thrown-together chicken soup I made after work, because my stomach is in knots about the election and I couldn’t handle anything else.
Nov 6th, 2024
2022 | Pinot Noir
Domaine Paul Thomas; Rosé
Sancerre; Chavignol, France
2022 | Pinot Noir
Domaine Paul Thomas; Rosé
Sancerre; Chavignol, France
Enjoyed it on July 2,2020
Enjoyed it on July 2,2020
1 person found it helpfulJul 3rd, 2020
Love this. Crunchy minerality sexy and gentle and exciting à la fois. Desirous-making.
Love this. Crunchy minerality sexy and gentle and exciting à la fois. Desirous-making.
Apr 2nd, 2015Not much on the nose; maybe subtle ripe raspberry. Beautiful rust color. Leathery notes of cranberry, cherry, & raspberry, but the fruit doesn’t overpower. Subtle tobacco. Smooth, rustic wine. Beautiful Pinot Noir.
Not much on the nose; maybe subtle ripe raspberry. Beautiful rust color. Leathery notes of cranberry, cherry, & raspberry, but the fruit doesn’t overpower. Subtle tobacco. Smooth, rustic wine. Beautiful Pinot Noir.
Jan 21st, 2022
Very cherry red color. Dry with a rough finish that pull the berry flat away
Very cherry red color. Dry with a rough finish that pull the berry flat away
May 10th, 2017
Dark fruity spice that lingers followed by tanin joy
Dark fruity spice that lingers followed by tanin joy
Apr 28th, 2017
Seems a bit sour and not quite balanced upon opening. Perhaps it improves after breathing.
Seems a bit sour and not quite balanced upon opening. Perhaps it improves after breathing.
Dec 28th, 2016