Sancerre ‘Maulin Bèle’ Rosé, Domaine André Vatan

Sancerre rosé made from Pinot Noir, using the saignée method

One of the grandest appellations of the Loire, Sancerre is a hill town poised on a block of limestone above the River Loire to the south-west of the city of Orléans. The Vatan family own 10 hectares of vines within the appellation of Sancerre and one hectare outside which is classified as an iGP Val de Loire. Nine-tenths of production is focused on Sauvignon Blanc, the remaining 10% on Pinot Noir. André inherited his vines from his father Jean and has cautiously expanded the business and invested in sophisticated new equipment. He is ably assisted by his wife Arielle and has no shortage of heirs with his children Aimée, Adrian and Antoine!

This rosé is made using the saignée, or bleeding, method of production. The white grape juice rests overnight on the red grape skins, imparting a pale pink colour before the tank is ‘bled’ the following day. The wine is light raspberry in colour, with a zesty red berry palate and a fresh, clean finish.

Colour – Rosé
Producer – Domaine André Vatan
Country – France
Region – Loire
Vegan – No
ABV – 12.5%
Grapes – Pinot Noir
Vintage – 2023
Sustainability – Non-Organic
Female Winemaker – Yes
Food Pairings – Soft cheeses, Charcuterie, Olives