$37.99 on 6+ (code: 6saves2)

Tasting Note:  Intense flavors of ripe citrus, Kaffir lime, sweet herbs, and white stone fruit are layered over a strikingly rocky texture. Saline minerality, caraway spice, and mouthwatering phenolic grip provide both energy and depth. The finish is long and focused, marked by stony precision, chalky cut, and persistent mineral drive. As the entry wine in the range, it already ranks among the finest expressions of Sauvignon Blanc you are likely to encounter.

Variety: Sauvignon Blanc

Vineyard: Drawn from mature, 35- to 50-year-old vines rooted entirely in the limestone soils of Chavignol. The multiple sites are largely slopes on the Chavignol hillside terroirs of Les Chasseignes, Les Longues Fins and La Rue de Veaux. This is quite distinct from most Sancerre derived from the plains, with more fertile and productive soils. Importantly, Boulay also includes fruit from younger vines on the “star” terroirs of La Grande Côte, Clos de Beaujeu and Monts Damnés.

Orientation: Multiple parcels, varied exposure

Soil: Base of Kimmeridgean limestone

Viticulture: Gerard manually works the soil. All fruit is hand-harvested.

Vinification: The juice ferments spontaneously and rests for eight months in tank, on lees, with a small volume also fermented in a single large wooden cask. This is the only blended cuvée in the Boulay lineup

Aging: Aged 8 months on lees in about 95% tank, 5% large used wood.

Production: 200 cases annually

92pts Wine review Online:
This is a Sancerre for the cellar. It will show its best with another three or more years of age. Within the Sancerre appellation, the commune of Chavignol stands out for the intensity of its wines as well as its exemplary goat’s milk cheeses – the Crottin de Chavignol is among the world’s favorite chèvres. Sauvignon Blancs from Chavignol are among the most distinctive in the world. Gérard Boulay’s 2023 Sancerre from Chavignol exhibits the unique character of the growing site. With a bit of aeration, it shows a wonderful combination of lemon, grapefruit, pear, and green apple fruit scents are followed by subtle notes of lily, peach, cream, and fresh herbs. The flavors of mouthwatering citrus, apple and pear fruits are backed by delicate floral and herbal hints. The texture is creamy in its intensity, offering remarkable richness for a Sauvignon Blanc wine. Try it with a Chavignol chèvre and enjoy a perfect food and wine pairing.---- Wayne Belding