Did you know Sancerre isn't always a white wine? A handful of estates also craft beautiful, dry, mineral-driven rosés from Pinot Noir, and this is the debut vintage from Betty and Franck Millet. If you've enjoyed their Sancerre Blanc over the years, I think you're going to love this.
Lynn and I had a bottle with pan-seared wild salmon last weekend, and we'd say the Millets are off to a splendid start. The bright, crisp notes of tart cherry, raspberry, and elegant citrus were a wonderful contrast to the rich, oily texture of the salmon. I had the last glass after dinner, and it had really opened up, revealing more complex notes of green herbs and chalky minerality.
It's a very complete wine, and if you know anything about Sancerre, you know finding one under $30 isn't easy these days, regardless of its color...
This wine is a perfect example of why the French label wines by region instead of grape variety. Even though it's 100% Pinot Noir, it has an unmistakable Sancerre character. Close your eyes, stick your nose in the glass, and I think you'll know exactly what I mean.
Whether you pair it with salmon, goat cheese on a baguette, roast chicken, or a summer salad, this is the kind of rosé that's easy to love. Truth be told, it's just as enjoyable on its own at the end of a warm summer day.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
