Fleuriet Touraine Les Belles Vignes 2024

Anyone who is a fan of Sancerre knows prices have risen rapidly. The 2024 harvest was very small and of mixed quality, forcing producers to raise prices just as tariffs hit early last summer. This has pushed most of our Sancerre into the high $30s, with many now near $50. Thankfully, we find a few diamonds in nearby Loire Valley appellations — this one comes from Touraine to the west.

Produced by Mathieu and Benoît Fleuriet, this wine shows how excellent winemaking can overcome a tough vintage. Their father, Bernard Fleuriet — near-legendary in Sancerre — trained them for years in his cellar.

You know this isn’t a standard Touraine the moment you swirl the glass. The nose is an electrifying mix of lime zest, gooseberry, passionfruit, and pink grapefruit. The palate is plump at first, then a keen edge of minerality and acidity zips up the finish. Most impressive is the slightly rich texture, uncommon in 2024s from the Loire. Drink 2026–2027 with chicken breasts stuffed with feta and spinach, or on its own.