Sancerre Les Caillottes, Jolivet

The Sancerre Les Caillottes from Pascal Jolivet is a prime example of how much soil and wine are connected – mineral, precise, with genuine substance.

Pascal Jolivet is one of the most reliable names in Sancerre. His operation in the heart of the Loire combines artisanal care with modern cellar aging. The cuvée Les Caillottes bears the name of the Kimmeridgian limestone that characterizes about a third of the Sancerre soils – a fossil marine subsoil of shells and lime that gives the wine its typical saltiness and structure.

In the glass, the Sauvignon Blanc shows yellow grapefruit, white currant, and fresh herbs, including a hint of nettle – varietally typical and clear. On the palate, taut, lively acidity, no superfluous weight. The finish is long, cool, and salty – the limestone says hello.

• Temperature: 10–12 °C
• Food: Goat cheese (Crottin de Chavignol is no coincidence), oysters, grilled sea bass, or asparagus with hollandaise