13.5%, St-Satur, imported by MISA Imports Inc., Dallas, TX. Cork closure: natural. Biodynamic calendar: root day.
Domaine Gérard Fiou is a small, family-owned, 10-hectare domaine in the east of the Sancerre appellation in the town of Saint-Satur along a beautifully stony area of the Upper Loire river. Producers here are few, and the soil is unique in that it has a high percentage of silex (or flint) which typically is identified in the vineyards of Pouilly Fumé, which lies just across the river. Gérard and family are in the process of converting to certified organic viticulture and have farmed their vineyards sustainably with organic techniques. Only around 15% of the Sancerre appellation has these unique flintrock soils and the high proportion of older vineyards (an average of 60 years old) in the domaine holdings gives the wines have a a reputation for intense mineral expression that is a distinct combination of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé character. The 2019 ‘Terroir Silex’ is from 60+ year-old 100% Sauvignon Blanc vines; the wine is aged on the fine lees in stainless steel tank for six months with bâttonage.
Tasting note: The 2019 Fiou ‘Terroir Silex’ is medium lemon in color with a nose of medium+ intensity with aromas of orange blossom, gooseberry, lemongrass, and chalky flint rock. On the palate, this wine is dry with high acid, medium alcohol, medium body, medium+ flavor intensity and a long finish with flavors of lemon skin, grapefruit peel, ruby red grapefruit juice, pomelo, lemongrass, jalapeño, chalk, and gun smoke. This is very well made Sancerre and has a nice core of concentration and an impressive finish. Drink now or through 2026, this wine is very good 9.4/10.