The 2023 Vincent Pinard Charlouise Sancerre Rouge is a refined 100% Pinot Noir from Bué in France’s Loire Valley, offering a more ambitious expression of the domaine’s red wines. Brothers Florent and Clément Pinard continue the family’s work, with Charlouise paying tribute to earlier generations through fruit from vines around 50 years old, rooted in clay-limestone soils over limestone bedrock. These mature vines provide the foundation for a wine that combines aromatic finesse with depth and structure. Hand harvesting, careful sorting and fermentation with indigenous yeasts reflect the estate’s focus on expressing the character of its vineyards.
The 2023 offers cherry, raspberry and floral notes, complemented by nutmeg, gentle pepper and savoury spice. Its supple palate is supported by fine, chalky tannins, with refreshing acidity giving definition to the ripe fruit. La Revue du Vin de France awarded it 94 Points, while Vinous awarded 91 Points, highlighting its caressing texture, aromatic layers and gently refreshing balance. The Vinous assessment also noted cherry, nutmeg and a subtle cola character, leading into a calm, scented finish. This is a textural, expressive Sancerre Rouge, with the fruit generosity of the vintage balanced by the fine structure associated with its limestone-rich origins.
Ben’s Recommendation:
What appeals to me here is the combination of mature-vine depth, silky texture and the distinctive character of Loire Valley Pinot Noir. Charlouise is a particularly interesting step up for someone who already enjoys the domaine’s regular Sancerre Rouge and wants to explore a more complex cuvée. I would aim to drink it from approximately 2027 through 2033, assuming good storage, while allowing an earlier bottle plenty of time in a large Burgundy glass. With development, I would expect dried flowers, gentle earthiness and savoury notes to complement its cherry fruit and spice. Pair it with duck, roast chicken, veal or mushroom dishes. For someone seeking a serious Sancerre Rouge with both immediate charm and development ahead, this is an attractive choice.
