Best-Buy stand-in for Sancerre!
There are plenty of famous properties in the wine world that command a tremendous amount of respect thanks to the magical combination of location and winemaking talent. Unfortunately, their wines always command a tremendous price tag as well. So, what happens if we widen our target and explore the adjacent areas surrounding those famous names? Quite often, they will produce some of the true hidden gems of the wine world at prices significantly more friendly to the wallet. The Loire Valley in France is a great place to exercise this premise.
Touraine AOC, Middle Loire
The Loire River Valley is the largest source of white wine in France and only Champagne produces more sparkling wine. The region is a favorite for wine tourism and in addition to being the longest wine route in France, you'll experience a slew of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking cathedrals, and one grand château after another.
Domaine de Bellevue Touraine, now known as Domaine Raphaël Midoir
The village of Chémery in the Touraine wine region is a pleasant 90-minute drive from Sancerre -- arguably the most famous of the Loire's Sauvignon Blanc producing villages. The soil here is a mixture of clay, flint, sand, and limestone, producing wines that are a touch less mineral driven with a more lush and ripe palate than wines of the famous neighbors to the east in Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé.
Raphaël Midoir took over management of his family vineyards in Chémery from his father in 1997, becoming the 5th generation to make wine at the property. Today, he carries on the family's tradition of sustainable farming and minimal intervention in the cellar.
In the glass...
In the glass, you'll enjoy a Sauvignon Blanc with beautiful richness and depth of texture. There are bright citrus and herb notes on the nose that lead to a super fresh palate of lemon, white peach, and exotic fruits. The gentle underpinning of minerals is there to remind you that you're drinking Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire.
This may be the ultimate "starter white" for an evening of friends and family, however, it will also shine with any chicken, pork and fish pairings you throw at it. The ample richness of this white makes it a wise choice for a cold weather white, and its freshness and lift will carry it aptly through the summer months as well.
If you like your Sauvignon Blanc with the nuance of citrus, stone fruits and minerals, and at a give-away price, this one is for you!
Regular price: $15.99 per bottle
$14.39 per bottle in a solid or mixed 6-pack
$13.59 per bottle when mixed into a case
Can't make it into the shop? Call in with a credit card and we'll hold your purchase for pickup at your convenience or arrange for delivery.
(On sale while current supplies remain.)