Domaine du Carrou: A Legacy Carved from the Earth
In 1950, while the world was shifting and evolving, it was Dominique’s father Maurice Roger who planted the seeds of a vision in the fertile grounds of Bué. His dream, Domaine du Carrou, blossomed under the watchful gaze of the Sancerre sun and through the hands of the generations that followed…
The ‘Garden of France’
I’m sure by now, you've heard of the Loire Valley, right? Yeah, it's that mesmerizing land of rolling hills and cascading vineyards. Often hailed as the "Garden of France", this picturesque landscapes offers diverse grape varieties.
While the region is famed for its whites, particularly from Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, its reds too command a unique respect. Among the notable red grapes cultivated in the Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc stands prominent in appellations like Chinon and Bourgueil. Yet, when one ventures to the Sancerre appellation, a distinct tradition comes to the fore.
Sancerre, with its verdant slopes and specific terroir, holds steadfast to an age-old vinicultural principle: to be labeled as "Sancerre Rouge", the wine must be, without exception, 100% Pinot Noir. This unwavering commitment is more than just a regional practice; it's a sacred promise to the viticulture world. It underscores the region's dedication to maintaining the integrity and authenticity of its produce, ensuring that each bottle of Sancerre Rouge is a genuine testament to the unique terroir and heritage of Sancerre.
Technical Tales of the Terroir
Their Pinot Noir represents a meticulous blend of tradition and terroir. Selected from four prime locations, each vineyard was managed using organic farming practices.
One of the distinguishing features of these vineyards is the "Terres blanches" soil type, a clay-limestone composition that originates from the late Jurassic period, specifically the lower Kimmeridgian era, approximately 135-140 million years ago.
Kimmeridgian soil is highly valued in viticulture for its unique mineral composition, which imparts a characteristic depth and distinction to wines. The vines were maintained using the Guyot pruning method, ensuring optimal health and growth.
The fermentation process was spontaneous, relying solely on the vineyard's indigenous yeast. This approach underscores a commitment to low intervention, allowing the wine to embody the genuine essence of its terroir. The result is a Pinot Noir that stands as a testament to the rich history and expertise of the Sancerre region.