Domaine Daniel Chotard

Daniel Chotard's vineyard lies on the slopes surrounding the small commune of Crezancy-en-Sancerre, which, in turn, is quite close to the town of Sancerre, famous the world over for the finest wines made from Sauvignon Blanc.

Daniel exudes enthusiasm! Whether it be for his wines, his musical instruments, jazz or the social life of the district, Daniel's enthusiasm is infectious.

His cellar is well-organised, neat and tidy - just what you would expect for a man who makes wines to the highest possible standards in an area that sets the bar very high.

Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre Blanc 2008

The 2008 Sancerre is a beautiful example of what the Sancerre appellation can deliver. Pale yellow glints through the glass and white flower aromas greet the nose. This elegant white wine is a perfect accompaniment for seafood dishes or poached chicken. The alcohol level is a pleasant 12.5%. The grape variety is Sauvignon Blanc, the only white grape permitted in the Sancerre appellation.

And if you wondered why this wine was the first of the recent shipment to sell out read this extract from the Kermit Lynch newsletter (Kermit is the author of the fabulous book 'Adventures on the Wine Trail' and a leading US importer of French wines):

This may be the sexiest Sancerre out there. The musically gifted Chotard is a master at coaxing the nerve plus the roundness and complex fruitiness out of his Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Not bad - classic Sancerre verve and stoniness and Dagueneau-esque intensity.

RRP: $33

Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre Cuvee Champ de l'Archer Rouge 2007

The Champ de l'Archer is a red wine of some complexity that is barrel aged for 18 months. It has a deep garnet colour and an expressive nose with concentrated peppery aromas. A perfect match for game dishes or, as Daniel suggests, chocolate desserts! This wine is made from 100% Pinot Noir.

RRP: $43

Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre Rouge 2007

Red wines made from Pinot Noir are permitted in Sancerre although these are not as well known as their famous cousins. Daniel makes a very good example of a Sancerre red. He uses oak on only 10% of the wine - the rest is fermented and aged in steel tanks to maintain the freshness of the fruit. If you like wines from Burgundy then you will love this wine.

RRP: $37

Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre Rosé 2008

This delicate, fragrant rosé is made from red wine only. And, being from Sancerre, the red wine is, of course, Pinot Noir. This is a beautiful savoury wine that is a perfect accompaniment for light foods.