Alphonse Mellot Sancerre La Demoiselle Rouge 2016

Biodynamic. This fabulous old-vine Pinot Noir comes from a small, east-facing hillside that produces just 250 cases of wine per year. Also planted with a little Sauvignon, La Demoiselle was established in 1951, and is one of Sancerre's easier vineyards to locate, just below the Panoramic Hotel on the edge of the village. The soils are a mix of flint and flinty clay, the town being situated over the fault that runs through the appellation. While the winemaking essentially mirrors that of La Moussière, the yields here are somewhat lower still.
 
Opening with a refined nose of early-season cherry, cinnamon and vivid violet, it's a step up in intensity and weight from the wine Moussière rouge. Defined, elegant and focused, the palate is only medium-bodied yet caresses the mouth with waves of red fruits complexed by earthy mushroom and truffle notes. The finish carries lovely bright acidity and remarkably polished tannins.
 
"The nose is smoky, with a lightly macerated sense to the fruit, with twists of tobacco and leather on the nose. It feels deliciously poised on the palate, delicate and nicely framed, with chalky tannins and a fresh acidity. The flavours show some evolution here, moving on from black bean and pepper to threads of liquorice, truffle and tobacco, all underscored by great energy and fresh acidity. These latter structural elements persist into the finish too, which has good length. Well done." 93 points, Chris Kissack, The Wine Doctor