Domaine Henri Bourgeois is situated in the town of Chavignol in the central Loire and has been in the hands of the Bourgeois family for over ten generations. There are currently 65 hectares under vine, although as recently as 1950 there were only 2 hectares. Today the company is run by the energetic Jean-Marie Bourgeois who has also overseen the recent purchase of land in the Marlborough region of New Zealand's South Island (Clos Henri). Back in Chavignol, what the domaine cannot provide through its own vineyards is supplemented by local growers strictly supervised by Jean-Marie. A range of whites and reds (plus an excellent rosé) is produced on the estate and this particular Sancerre rouge is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes from 40 year old vines. Following fermentation the wine spends up to 10 months in Tronçais oak barrels. Rich and 'vinous' in character, this would pair well with the local Crottin de Chavignol goat's cheese.
A dark garnet-red in colour. A nose of black cherries and vanilla with a hint of mint. On the palate, medium-bodied and slightly spicy with savoury notes and balanced acidity. The finish is lengthy showing ripe tannins. Excellent with pigeon in honey sauce with fresh figs, raised game pie or a simple girolles and chicory salad.