Alphonse Mellot Rouge Generation XIX Sancerre 2018

Alphonse Mellot is one of Sancerre's most historic estates. The family line is so deep that the domaine traces its winemaking back to 1513 and is now led by Alphonse Mellot Jr., the 19th generation of the family to bear the name. The Génération XIX cuvée is a nod to those 19 successive generations of Mellots who have grown grapes in Sancerre. While the appellation is world-famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, the Mellots are equally serious about Pinot Noir, and this bottling is 100% Pinot Noir, sourced from the Chambratte and Paradis parcels, and certified organic and biodynamic. The estate's prized land is the 30-hectare La Moussière vineyard, a single block of Kimmeridgian limestone, Saint Doulchard marl, and chalky soils that Alphonse Sr. began farming with a pioneering commitment to sustainability, converting to organics in 1988 and earning biodynamic certification in 2009. They do all hand-harvesting with low yields, in the pursuit of pure, terroir-driven fruit.

“This is a serious, seductive and structured Sancerre.” –Vinous, 95 Points

As for the 2018 Rouge, it comes from a warm, dry vintage and shows the ripe and structured side of Sancerre reds. The nose is pure and fleshy, with a meaty, faintly reductive character that reveals dark fruit and licorice – tones of plums, blackcurrant, iodine, and a savory, bloody edge. The palate is smooth and round, a dense, juicy, and very elegant Pinot Noir with fleshy ripe cherry flavors, fine tannins, and a satin-smooth finish. Tasting Panel gave it a lofty 100 points, calling it “One of the most beautiful Sancerre Rouge wines you will taste this decade.” And we’re tempted to heartily agree.

Preposterously low quantities available… and for the serious Pinot lovers, this is a can’t-miss.