Joost de Willebois, a Dutch financier, discovered a business opportunity in 2004 He established a small Loire winery owned by someone who had no successor. Joost bought it with the vision of transforming it into something larger. J. de Villebois now makes a bevy of wines from Sauvignon Blanc, including this Sancerre and a Pouilly-Fumé. Delicious by itself, this Sancerre becomes more interesting for those of us who really want to understand the difference between Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. They are made from the same grape.
A descendant of an old French family dating back to 1180, Joost de Willebois follows in the line of his ancestors and perpetuates his chivalrous heritage. Supported by his wife Miguela, they have united a team of winegrowers, winemakers and craftsmen in order raise the bar for Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley to the highest level!

The 2018 Caillottes Sancerre is rich and densely textured. It is amazingly balanced in its youth. Bright green-golden in color with powerful white fruit aromas of white peach and pear along with elements of citron, minerality, and a whiff of petrol. The palate evolves towards a livelier expression of vibrant acidity, carried by nice minerality and fresh lemon. The finish is long and mouth-watering with a touch of chalkiness. This lovely Sancerre will soften with age for 5+ years, but I also think it’s so delicious now in its youth.
By Perry Miroballi