Thierry Merlin is one of the true luniaries of Sancerre having produced distinctive and invigorating Sauvignon Blancs from the hamlet of Bue for four decades. He is widely considered one of the best winemakers in the region, and with good reason as this offering has all crisp citrus, chalky minerals and fresh quince that Sancerre is known for. But the Merlin-Cherrier also has a darker side as well- a seedy underbelly of smoke and richness that never seems to show its true nature but instead lurks just below the surface of the flavors. I wonder what it will do in a few years? Either way it is quite tasty now.