In the glass
Aroma: lime, white flower, chalk, green apple
Palate: citrus, saline mineral, white peach, wet stone
Pascal Jolivet's flagship Sancerre Les Caillottes is sourced from chalky limestone (Caillottes) parcels. Cool, citrus-driven and chalky in classic Sancerre style.
What it pairs with
-
Oysters with lemon
Saline mineral edge and shellfish brine align; lime aromatic substitutes for citrus wedge. -
Cabécou de Rocamadour
Goat cheese tang locks onto Sauvignon's chalky lift; lactic salt meets lime aromatic. -
Sushi
Tense acidity and saline mineral edge handle delicate raw fish without overpowering soy. -
Spring vegetable risotto
Asparagus and pea risotto with the wine's herbal-citrus register; chalk lifts arborio cream.
History
Pascal Jolivet founded the maison in 1987 and built it into a major independent négociant in Sancerre. Les Caillottes is the entry to the range, focused on chalky limestone terroir.
- 1987 — Pascal Jolivet founds the maison in Sancerre
- 2015 — Estate vineyards certified organic
Facts
- Producer
- Maison Pascal Jolivet
- Grapes
- Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
- Classification
- Sancerre AOC
- Oak
- Vinified in stainless steel; aged on fine lees, no oak
- ABV
- 13.0%
- Price
- EUR 22 to 32 at retail
- Drinking window
- 1-6 from vintage
- First vintage
- 1987
- Organic
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED
- Vegan
- Yes (no animal-derived fining)
Scores
- Wine Spectator 90 (2022 vintage, reviewed 2024)
Frequently asked about Sancerre Les Caillottes
What does Jolivet Sancerre Les Caillottes taste like?
Lime, white flower, chalk and green apple on the nose; citrus, saline mineral, white peach and wet stone on the palate. Medium-bodied with high acidity and a medium, chalky finish.
When should I drink Jolivet Sancerre Les Caillottes?
Drink between 1 and 6 years from vintage. The wine is built for early drinking on its citrus drive and chalky lift; light chill (8-10°C) is ideal.
Where is Les Caillottes grown?
On Caillottes (chalky limestone) terroir across Sancerre, vinified entirely in stainless steel with no oak.
Is Jolivet Sancerre Les Caillottes vegan?
Yes. The estate is organic-certified and the wines are produced without animal-derived fining agents.