In the glass
Aroma: citrus zest, white flower, chalk, white peach
Palate: lemon, saline mineral, stone, creamy lees
Single-vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from Kimmeridgian limestone in Morogues. Chalky depth more often associated with Sancerre proper, at Menetou-Salon prices.
What it pairs with
-
Crottin de Chavignol
Sister AOC to Sancerre with the same goat-cheese affinity; chalk and lactic-salt lock together. -
Sole grenobloise
Brown butter, caper and lemon meets the wine's chalky citrus signature. -
Oysters
Saline mineral edge and shellfish brine align; citrus replaces lemon wedge. -
Asparagus with hollandaise
Sauvignon's herbal lift bridges the vegetable's bitterness; saline mineral cuts egg-yolk richness.
History
Domaine Henry Pelle accounts for 25 percent of the entire Menetou-Salon AOC's production. The Blanchais lieu-dit in Morogues shares the same Kimmeridgian limestone soils as Sancerre proper.
- 2000 — Single-vineyard Les Blanchais bottling launched
- 1980 — Eric Pelle joins his father Henry at the estate
Facts
- Producer
- Domaine Henry Pelle
- Grapes
- Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
- Classification
- Menetou-Salon AOC
- Oak
- Vinified in stainless steel; aged on fine lees, no oak
- ABV
- 13.0%
- Price
- EUR 25 to 40 at retail
- Drinking window
- 2-10 from vintage
- First vintage
- 2000
- Organic
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED
- Vegan
- Yes (no animal-derived fining)
Scores
- Wine Spectator 91 (2021 vintage, reviewed 2023)
Frequently asked about Menetou-Salon Morogues Les Blanchais
What does Pelle Clos des Blanchais taste like?
Citrus zest, white flower, chalk and white peach on the nose; lemon, saline mineral, stone and creamy lees on the palate. Medium-bodied with high acidity and a long chalky finish.
When should I drink Pelle Clos des Blanchais?
Drink between 2 and 10 years from vintage. The Kimmeridgian limestone gives the wine more cellaring depth than typical Menetou-Salon; 3 to 5 years adds complexity.
Where is Clos des Blanchais grown?
On Kimmeridgian limestone in the Morogues lieu-dit of Clos des Blanchais. The soil profile matches Sancerre's premier slopes.
Is Pelle Clos des Blanchais vegan?
Yes. The estate is organic-certified and the wines are produced without animal-derived fining agents.