The narrative unfolds at the start of the 20th century when Maurice Vacheron opted to establish a one-hectare estate in the Sancerre region. His son, Jean, later extended the estate by a further three hectares. In 1966, Denis and Jean-Louis Vacheron decided to plant more vines and acquire several plots in order to expand the estate and develop the business.
Now the winery is run by Jean-Dominique Vacheron and his cousin Jean-Laurent. The estate covers almost 50 hectares, 37 of which are planted with white grapes. Since 2004, the estate has progressed to improve its winemaking methods in the vineyard and cellar, becoming the first estate in the Sancerre appellation to be certified biodynamic.
The geological diversity, marked by clay soils containing limestone and flint depending on the terroir, has prompted Domaine Vacheron to adopt the Burgundian model using the parcel-by-parcel method. This approach is evident in the creation of six parcel-specific cuvées, each composed of 100% Sauvignon Blanc, as well as in one of its red Sancerre wines, Belle Dame, crafted entirely from Pinot Noir.
Domaine’s classic Sancerre is always well-balanced and lively, with refreshing citrus notes. The cuvées de lieux-dits, like the straightforward, energetic Paradis, are pure expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. Irresistible Guigne-Chèvres, concentrated, racy, full of vigour, right through to a finish where an insistent salinity provokes a soft, persistent salivation. This makes just a smallshare of perfectly balanced and exceptionally delicate wines you can try by Domaine Vacheron.
