Description
Domaine Fouassier, one of Sancerre’s historic estates, has been family-run for over ten generations and is now led by Benoît and Paul Fouassier. A pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture in the Loire Valley, the domaine works meticulously across a mosaic of soils—limestone, flint and clay—to express the nuances of each parcel. Their philosophy emphasises minimal intervention, allowing each wine to reflect its origin with clarity and authenticity.
“Iconoclaste” is a singular and deliberately unconventional cuvée within the range, produced from Pinot Noir grown on clay-rich marls (marnes de Saint-Doulchard). The vines, around 50 years old, are farmed biodynamically with low yields, enhancing concentration while preserving freshness. The name itself signals a break from tradition, embracing a freer, more instinctive style of winemaking.
In the cellar, the approach is resolutely natural: hand-harvested grapes are fermented with indigenous yeasts, with gentle extraction and a relatively short maceration to preserve fruit purity. The wine is then aged in terracotta amphorae, rather than oak, highlighting texture without imprinting flavour. Bottled without added sulphites and without filtration, “Iconoclaste” is as transparent and unadorned as possible—a direct expression of fruit, place and vintage.
In the glass, the 2022 shows a lively and expressive profile, centred on fresh red berries with subtle earthy and savoury undertones. The palate is supple, juicy and refreshing, with fine tannins and a bright, energetic finish. There is a sense of immediacy and drinkability here—less about structure and ageing, more about vibrancy and pleasure.
A convivial, characterful Sancerre Rouge, “Iconoclaste” stands apart for its purity and freedom of expression—an authentic, living wine designed as much for sharing as for serious appreciation.
