Domaine Michel Thomas

Family wines from Domaine Michel Thomas

In Les Egrots, a small hamlet in the commune of Sury-en-Vaux, Laurent Thomas runs the Domaine Michel Thomas with 17 hectares of vineyards. He is supported by his son Alexis, who returned to the estate after completing his studies.

The estate is located in Sancerre, one of the most famous appellations of the Loire region. The white wine from this area bears the name of the region; Sancerre has been a protected designation of origin since 1959. The vineyards lie in a hilly landscape at 200–300 m above sea level, and the climate is continental. Winters are cold, and there is often still a risk of frost in spring. The Loire moderates temperature fluctuations somewhat; viticulture takes place mainly on steep slopes in order to make optimal use of sunlight.

The terroir of Domaine Michel Thomas (and of Sancerre)

The vines of Domaine Michel Thomas are located in different communes, which allows us to have plots on different soils such as:

• Caillottes (limestone soil)
• Terres-blanches (clay-limestone soil)
• Flint

. These three soils are typical of the Sancerre region. Each terroir imparts a different typicity, which is reflected in every wine. The calcareous soils of the Caillottes produce delicate and fruity wines that are very tasty even when young. The vines on the Terres-blanches, on the other hand, provide the basis for wines with aging potential and are therefore matured in oak barrels. The wines that originate from the flint soils are in turn rather smoky and mineral in character.

From grape to wine at Michel Thomas

In the Sancerre region, almost only two grape varieties are now cultivated, and Domaine Michel Thomas is no exception:

• Sauvignon Blanc
• Pinot Noir

Three white wines stand as representatives of the different terroirs and convey their characteristics. Thus, the Sancerre Blanc from the Caillottes is the light, lively entry-level wine that is already enjoyed when young. The Sil'ex is more mineral in character and is, for example, a wonderful companion to oysters. The grapes from the Terres-blanches form the basis for the Cuvée Terre-Blanche which, as already mentioned, is matured in oak barrels. Aromas of almonds and candied fruit caress the palate here and make it an ideal companion to more hearty dishes.

From the Pinot Noir, Laurent and Alexis Thomas ultimately vinify a red wine matured in stainless steel tanks as well as one from oak barrels. A rosé wine is also part of the lineup to round off the portfolio.