Domaine Roger & Didier Raimbault Sancerre Côteline 2016

Based in Verdigny, the Raimbault family have been making wine from the Sancerre region since the mid 17th century, though its most important history only began in 1960. With only 2 hectares, a horse and a small tribe of goats, the family cultivated their grapes by hand. In 1966, Roger bought their first tractor and so was able to add to their land. Little-by-little vineyard land was acquired and finally attaining 6.5 hectares by 1996 when his son Didier joined him. Though they work 17.5 hectares over an incredible 51 different parcels today, they never lost sight of creating more artisanal wines. Today, they produce 3 whites from Sauvignon Blanc as well as two reds and a rosé from Pinot Noir. Their 2016 Sancerre Côteline is their 'cru', produced from a single vineyard with 40º slopes. Poor in top soil but rich in minerals, the vineyard produces more powerful wine. In order to harness its full potential the Raimbaults age it in 500-litre casks. The result is a complex, mineral-driven wine with notes of dried pineapple, preserved lime, peaches, smoky flint and brioche.

Robin says 'Côteline is a more unique expression of Sancerre. Most Sancerres today are vinified in only stainless steel to feature their gentle fruit and minerality, but this one takes on a new dimension with its ageing in larger oak casks. One foot in Sancerre and one in Burgundy.'