Francois Crochet 2022 Sancerre Rouge "Les Marnes", Loire Valley

Pinot Noirs from Sancerre are a different breed.  Grown in soils rich with decomposed oystershells, they take on some of the minerality of the famous Sauvignon Blancs grown there.  (The very definition of terroir, perhaps?)  To those preferring the plusher side of Pinot, they may seem angular and lean, and many are.  When produced in a good vintage by elite winemakers who do the hard work in the vineyard, Sancerre rouge can offer compelling character and individuality that rivals the finest of Burgundy.  Such a wine is this.  Silky-textured, with such breed, it is still unmistakably a wine of this place, but it transcends its origins with its black-fruited flavors, deep, straightforward aromas of minerals and dark fruits and satisfying finish.  This is a pedigree.