White Wine ()

Fresh and lively, with a raw edge to the pear and citrus flavors, lingering enticingly. Drink now through 2014. -- 88 points, Wine Spectator

Although there are subtle differences between the terroir of Menetou-Salon, an up-and-coming region in central Loire, and that of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé to its east, all three regions offer a unique and distinctive take on the expressive Sauvignon Blanc grape variety. In this classic, cool season Loire year, this well-made Assadet Menetou-Salon rings with the freshness and vibrant acidity of the vintage. 

The aromatics in this 2011 Sauvignon are distinctly tropical. Indulging the nose the initial sweet passion fruit then gives way to hints of lime, classic gooseberry, and dried herbs. But it is the palate where this wine embodies all that is Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. The entry onto the palate is smooth and fruit driven, which accelerates through to a midpalate burst of energy from the firm lively acidity with a lingering mouth-watering finish, leaving the discerned wine drinker simply gagging for more. Sauvignon Blanc can be enjoyed on many occasion: either on its own as an aperitif, or accompanied by seafood and salad dishes. Serve lightly chilled.

Brilliant straw yellow with a green shimmer. Quite pronounced and expressive aroma with flowery and somewhat spicy notes. Rich flavoured in the mouth, with a slight smokiness at the back and a good, fresh finish. When properly cellared, this will drink well for 2 to 4 years.

Colour: Straw yellow with light green tinges. Nose: Subtle, intense and delicate, with good primary and secondary aromas. Palate: Fresh and dry, sapid, with pleasant delicate and fine feel. Food Matches: Seafood starters, fregola (small balls of semolina) with crustaceans, fish stews, bass with artichokes, soft-textured medium mature cheeses.

Intense floral aromas are followed by notes of fresh peach, pear and citrus with hints of toasty vanilla oak. Soft in texture, this well-balanced wine is crisp and refreshing on the finish.

Soft, round fruit fills the mouth with ripe, juicy flavors. A long finish glides into flavors of ripe apples and lichee nuts. A wine to be enjoyed alone, as an apéritif, or with shellfish, fowl and light meals that include vegetarian dishes.

Swirl this Chardonnay and indulge in its rich aromas of pear, apple and tropical fruit. Hints of vanilla and toasty oak spices come from oak fermentation, while a floral note is from a splash of Viognier. Sip and discover silky layers reminiscent of pineapple, melon, fig and baked apple. The lingering, fruity finish is laced with crème brûle�e nuances. This wine’s lush flavors and crisp acidity pair especially well with creamy dishes; our favorites include clam chowder, smoked salmon angel hair pasta, four-cheese risotto, and chicken with tarragon cream sauce.

With deep hues, this wine shows well-developed, concentrated flavors from the long hang times that this unique growing season allowed. Fragrant honeysuckle and pineapple aromas add depth to this medium-bodied wine. Forward flavors of stone fruits, pear and sweet citrus have softness on the palate. Food Pairing: Superb with grilled or broiled fish, chicken and light pork and casual foods such as tapas, paninis and wraps.

Bright lemon zest, apple, pineapple, star fruit and mineral aromas and mouth-filling lemon curd, apple and butterscotch flavors.