Joseph Mellot Sancerre La Graveliere

Description

Joseph Mellot Sancerre La Graveliere is named after the stony limestone soils on which the wines are grown. This is a classic, elegant Sancerre.

Domain Joseph Mellot was established in 1513 by Pierre Etienne Mellot and remains in the Mellot family to this day. The estate is currently under the stewardship of Catherine Corbeau Mellot who found herself in the role after the tragic death of her husband, Alexandre Mellot, in 2005. Domaine Joseph Mellot is one of the most historic wine companies in the Loire, certainly one of the most prestigious and has been key in developing vino-tourism in the region. As well as vineyards in Sancerre, they also have vineyards in Quincy, Reuilly, Pouilly Fume and Menetou Salon amongst others. 

The Sancerre wine-growing region has a long history, with evidence of its existence dating back to ancient times. The region saw significant growth in the 12th century due to the efforts of the local monks and nobility. Initially, the vineyards were dominated by Pinot Noir, but the devastating outbreak of Phylloxera in the 19th century wiped the vineyards. In time more and more Sauvignon Blanc was planted as it was found to be a grape variety well-suited to Sancerre’s climate and terroir. It would go on to become the star of the region’s most renowned appellation in the Central Loire.

The Sauvignon Blanc grapes for Joseph Mellot Sancerre La Graveliere come from vineyards with predominantly siliceous soils. All vineyard processes are carried out in an environmentally friendly manner, adapted to each terroir. After harvest and following on from cold static settling, the fermentation takes place at low temperatures in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks.

Joseph Mellot was the first domain in the Central Loire Valley to obtain ISO 14001 certification and BRC A accreditation. Today all of its vineyards are cultivated according to the principles of sustainable agriculture.