Francois le Saint
At Skin Contact Wines, we look for producers that dedicate themselves to pushing the boundaries of the possible in their vineyards and winery. Often times, this means a return to tradition, a refusal to use toxic chemicals on their vines and produce wines without manipulation. We believe that the world of organic, biodynamic or natural wines does not need to be confined to the small family domain or garagiste. While some of the most interesting wines come from small estates, we want to support larger producers as well who are committed to environmental sustainability. As such, we are excited to partner with Domaine Fouassier in Sancerre on their new project, Francois le Saint.
Fouassier is the largest land holder in Sancerre with 56 hectares planted to vines. The 10th generation of Fouassier, Jean-Michel and Paul, now manages the estate. Following their father’s lead, they have continued to transition their holdings to organic farming with biodynamic principles. Of course, they specialize in Sauvignon Blanc with plots on the diverse soils of Sancerre, ranging from chalky limestone to clay with flint. After more than 100 years farming these plots, the family knows how to grow and vinify their grapes in order to express the unique mineral composition of each plot.
Through experimentation, Jean-Michel and Paul discovered that organic and biodynamic farming with minimal intervention in the cellar best showcases their terroir. As such grapes are pressed directly to tank where they ferment with native yeasts. They continue to age in tank on the lees for one year. Bottled with minimal sulfur, this lengthy process produces wines that showcase the unique qualities of Sancerre and the dedication of the Fouassier family.
Fouassier is the largest land holder in Sancerre with 56 hectares planted to vines. The 10th generation of Fouassier, Jean-Michel and Paul, now manages the estate. Following their father’s lead, they have continued to transition their holdings to organic farming with biodynamic principles. Of course, they specialize in Sauvignon Blanc with plots on the diverse soils of Sancerre, ranging from chalky limestone to clay with flint. After more than 100 years farming these plots, the family knows how to grow and vinify their grapes in order to express the unique mineral composition of each plot.
Through experimentation, Jean-Michel and Paul discovered that organic and biodynamic farming with minimal intervention in the cellar best showcases their terroir. As such grapes are pressed directly to tank where they ferment with native yeasts. They continue to age in tank on the lees for one year. Bottled with minimal sulfur, this lengthy process produces wines that showcase the unique qualities of Sancerre and the dedication of the Fouassier family.
Calcaire, Sancerre
For the cuvee Calcaire, vines grown on the chalky limestone soils of Bourges produces softer and fruitier wines. Intended to be drunk in their youth, they have bright aromatics and fine acidity.
Shelf Talker
For the cuvee Calcaire, vines grown on the chalky limestone soils of Bourges produces softer and fruitier wines. Intended to be drunk in their youth, they have bright aromatics and fine acidity.
Shelf Talker
Silex, Sancerre
Silex (‘flint’) abounds in the vineyards around the commune of Sancerre. These soils are the youngest in the region with large flint stones scattered through the vineyards. These absorb heat during the day that increases the vines’ rate of maturation. Known for their structure, wines made from Silex soils are taut and bright with a classic Sancerre minerality. They will reward aging as well.
Shelf Talker
Silex (‘flint’) abounds in the vineyards around the commune of Sancerre. These soils are the youngest in the region with large flint stones scattered through the vineyards. These absorb heat during the day that increases the vines’ rate of maturation. Known for their structure, wines made from Silex soils are taut and bright with a classic Sancerre minerality. They will reward aging as well.
Shelf Talker