Thomas-Labaille “L’Authentique” Sancerre Blanc '24

Based in the village of Chavignol, Claude Thomas was a legendary farmer and top producer of Sancerre, known for his traditionally styled examples of Sauvignon Blanc. His son-in-law, Jean-Paul Labaille, eventually took over the estate after leaving his job as a civil servant, carrying on Claude’s tradition with the same commitment to honest, expressive wines from Chavignol.

“L’Authentique” is one of a handful of Sancerre bottlings produced by Labaille, and serves as the starting point in his range. The Sauvignon Blanc comes from several parcels in Chavignol, all rooted in the characteristic Kimmeridgian limestone soils for which the village is known. The vines average 25 years of age and are farmed sustainably. In the winery, the fruit is gently pressed, fermented with natural yeasts in fiberglass and cement tanks, then aged on its lees for four to six months in stainless steel before being bottled without filtration.

The resulting wine is everything you want from an entry-level Sancerre. Bright citrus notes, hints of green herbs, and a distinct mineral character carry through both the nose and palate. There is some appealing weight through the mid-palate, but plenty of zesty acidity as well, with a freshness that keeps you coming back for sip after sip.

Don’t miss this terrific Sancerre value.