Pascal Reverdy:

Sancerre (Loire Valley)

Pascal Reverdy’s domaine is based in the tiny hamlet of Maimbray. Maimbray is located in a valley surrounded by chalk hills adjacent to Chavignol and Verdigny. From their small cellar they produce one of France’s most highly awarded Sancerres’.

The Reverdy’s are highly accomplished viticulturists. They take great pride in their vineyards and they make it clear that the quality of the fruit comes from constant work and attention to every little detail in the vineyard throughout the year. The white Sancerre ‘Terre de Maimbray’ is picked at approximately 13° baumé and shows wonderful concentration of pure Sauvignon Blanc fruit, with chalky mineral flavours adding another dimension.

The Reverdy’s reputation concerns both red and white cuvées, and there is also a rosé produced here. In the vineyard, yields are restricted and fruit is hand harvested. The brothers ferment each plot separately, and the cellar is well equipped with the option of stainless steel or wood for the fermentation and, naturally, temperature control to preserve the freshness that characterises the white wines of the region. There are several white cuvées, starting with the straight Sancerre, and the Terre de Maimbray bottlings. Then comes Les Coûtes, from a single hillside plot of 50 year old vines, harvested at 45 hl/ha, followed by the Vielles Vignes, made from vines aged over 60 years, mostly from a single plot, harvested at less than 40 hl/ha, and fermented in old oak or acacia. All the wines rest on their lees over the winter, before bottling the following spring.

White wine 100% Sauvignon Blanc

2009 Sancerre “Terre de Maimbray”
“Almost thickly- and palpably extract-rich, with the body of its over 14% alcohol but no heat, its sappy, zesty, chewy impression of fresh fruits supplies a sense of invigoration and a certain sizzle and bite that persist in the finish, along with distinct chalkiness. I would plan to enjoy this over the next couple of years.” Robert Parkers The Wine Advocate August 2010

 2008 Sancerre “Terre de Maimbray” – SOLD OUT
“Light, bright straw. Musky aromas of lime, candied ginger, jasmine and crushed stone. Tactile, brisk and delineated, with very good cut to the orange peel, spice and dusty stone flavors. A subtle anise quality lingers on the long, vibrant, dusty finish.” Steve Tanzers International Wine Cellar April 2010

2007 Sancerre “Terre de Maimbray” – SOLD OUT
“This smells pungently of lemon, peppermint, and nettles. Almost shockingly bright and suffusing the palate with faintly bitter citrus oil and herbal concentrate, it boasts a finish that will leave you sucking air through your puckered lips and saying “wow!” Plug into this source of electricity over the next 18-24 months.” Robert Parkers The Wine Advocate August 2008