Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
LOIRE VALLEY<br />
MARKETS<br />
PASCAL GITTON PIONEERS EXPORTS OF SANCERRE WINES<br />
Northern Europe. “Even now, my father still spends a lot of time canvassing new<br />
markets”, adds Chanel, pointing to the winery’s relentless commitment to maintaining<br />
its reputation and standing out in a crowded and competitive marketplace.<br />
Its white wines sell effortlessly – “despite competition from German and Spanish<br />
whites” stresses Chanel Gitton – but its red Sancerre has also fuelled Vignobles<br />
Gitton’s success. “It can compete with Burgundy Pinot noir in terms of accessibility”,<br />
she concludes.<br />
NURTURING ITS REPUTATION<br />
As the figurehead of Centre-Loire appellations, Sancerre’s reputation has long been<br />
established. Despite this, its winegrowers continue to demonstrate their ability to<br />
promote their vineyard sites so that they can consolidate their existing markets and<br />
conquer new ones. They most certainly do not take their international acclaim for<br />
granted. The men and women interviewed in this report foster diversity, proving<br />
that even when faced with international competition they can reinvent themselves<br />
whilst preserving their heritage, in addition to crafting the Sauvignon blanc wines<br />
that have ensured (and continue to ensure) celebrity status for Sancerre wines. The<br />
Sancerre appellation is both timeless yet squarely focused on the future, ultimately<br />
demonstrating an admirable ability to grow its reputation.<br />
22 SPRING 2024 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE
Change language