Jean-Max Roger Cuvée La Grange Dîmière Sancerre Rouge 2013 (Loire) - Wine Review

Tonight's Pinot Noir from Loire is a new release that arrived in LCBO VINTAGES on March 3rd (with plenty still available for purchase as of this post).

This red wine is from Sancerre, a wine appellation in Loire, France, that is normally associated with fine expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. However, 30% of the vines at Jean-Max Roger are planted to Pinot Noir on flint, "terres blanches", and "caillottes" soil types. "La Grange Dîmière" refers to one of the village of Bue's ancient tithe barns. This barn was used by ancestors to make wine, and today it remains the oldest part of the winery.

I've enjoyed many wines from Jean-Max Roger over the years, but this is the first red wine from this winery. I am expecting another quality wine.

Tasting Note:

JEAN-MAX ROGER CUVÉE LA GRANGE DÎMIÈRE SANCERRE ROUGE 2013 - AC, Loire, France (#539858) (XD) - $29.95
100% Pinot Noir aged for 10-15 months, with 20-30% aged in 300 litre oak barrels, while the rest is aged in stainless steel tanks. Black plum, dark cherry and oak spice aromas from the cork. This has a medium+ intensity nose that offers ripe red berry and floral aromas with hints of candied cherry, earth and sandalwood oak spice. The tangy palate is light-bodied with fine tannins that are well-integrated and gains some grip with air. Tart acids are fresh. Sour cherry, floral and earthy flavours linger on the long, juicy finish, with touches of bitterness. Score: 89 pts