2023 Domaine Fouassier Sancerre "Clos Paradis", Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

From a walled vineyard on south-facing slopes rich in limestone-clay and flint, “Clos Paradis” is a site-specific cuvée that balances ripeness with mineral drive. The 2023 vintage benefited from a long, even growing season, allowing full phenolic ripeness while retaining sharp freshness. Farmed biodynamically and fermented spontaneously with native yeasts, the wine sees aging in stainless steel and cement eggs to preserve texture and nuance without masking terroir. Compared to the more linear “Garenne,” “Clos Paradis” offers greater breadth and quiet depth—citrus peel, fresh hay, and stone fruit layered over chalky persistence. An elegant match for roasted white fish, tarragon chicken, or spring vegetables.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Domaine Fouassier, one of Sancerre’s historic estates, is now run by the 10th generation—brothers Benoît and Paul Fouassier—who have transformed the domaine into a benchmark for biodynamic viticulture in the region. Their vineyard-first approach emphasizes biodiversity, soil health, and minimal intervention in the cellar, with a focus on showcasing the individuality of each terroir. With plots across Sancerre’s key soil types, Fouassier produces site-driven cuvées like “Clos Paradis” that reveal the quiet complexity and elegance of the Loire. Each wine is a conversation between land, vintage, and philosophy.