2010 French White Wine

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. 

Produced in Entre-Deux-Mers ("between two seas"), a picturesque region of Bordeaux sandwiched between the Garonne and the Dordogne rivers, this zesty Bordeaux blanc from the highly regarded 2010 vintage is a perfect all around summer white. Although most Entre-Deux-Mers is dominated by the assertive Sauvignon Blanc grape variety, Château Martinon's conscientious owner, Jerome Trolliet, favors Sémillon, using it for more than 60% of the blend, with Sauvignon Blanc (30%) and Muscadelle (10%) making up the rest. The emphasis on Sémillon yields a wine that is considerably more rich and savory than most Bordeaux Blanc.  The floral and mineral scented 2010 Château Martinon offers juicy lemon, citrus, and marmalade fruit, which makes it an ideal accompaniment to oysters (the classic match), fish,  grilled poultry, and light meats. It is also a great choice to sip all by itself, with the sea breezes blowing.

This delicious white, from white wine master and enology professor Denis Dubourdieu, has bright and tangy flavors of lemon-zest and grapefruit, with a very long and focused finish that ends with a nice bit of minerality. It should age nicely, if you can wait! (tasted three times including once with Denis Dubourdieu himself)
-- CW Wine Staff (April 2011)