The Rodney Dangerfield of Bordeaux: White Wines
2022 Altus de Chantegrive Blanc, Graves $16.99 Try this beauty. We have been trying for years to buy the white Chantegrive (we sell the red so well), and now we have it—just a little different name. Fine acidity, and the richness of 2022s shines through. Quite enjoyable now.
2021 R de Rieussec 'Vin Blanc Sec,' Bordeaux (Previously $30) $21.99 From a great white Bordeaux vintage with a very different bottle shape and style. This comes from our friends at Lafite, and the wine is quite nice. Fine 2021 acidity and balance. Citric and white flower notes.
2019 de La Solitude Blanc, Pessac-Leognan $24.99 93-95 Antonio Galloni for Vinous: "The 2019 Domaine de la Solitude Blanc offers a striking interplay of tension and power. Bright citrus, white flower and mineral nuances appear first, followed by hints of almond, crushed flowers and mint that add shades of complexity. It is one of the more vibrant 2019s I tasted.”
2020 de La Solitude Blanc, Pessac-Leognan $29.99 90 points Neal Martin for Vinous: "The 2020 Domaine de la Solitude has a lovely, what you might call ‘sunny’ bouquet with yellow plum, honeysuckle and jasmine scents with fine vigor. The palate is taut and fresh, with lovely penetration, taut and spicy thanks to a vein of stem ginger that runs through from start to finish. This wine from Olivier Bernard is well worth seeking out."
My notes: Olivier Bernard has been great wines for forty years starting with his fabulous Domaine de Chevalier wines. These two vintages of Solitude, though quite different in growing conditions, are top of the line whites with the 2020 a bit richer and the 2019 exhibiting great acidity and balance.
Sweets for the Sweetie in Your Life and For You, Too
2013 Sigalas Rabaud, Sauternes (375ml) $19.99 Not a very well-known stickie producer, but they make excellent wines and the prices are reasonable. 2013 was a very good Sauternes vintage with fine acidity and balance.
2011 Suduiraut, Sauternes (375ml) $34.99 96 points James Suckling: “The dried-mango and pineapple character is so delicious in this wine. It’s full-bodied and medium-sweet, with a pretty density and a fruity finish. Wonderful balance to this super Sauternes.”
My notes: I love the 2011 Sauternes and this is one of my favorites. Tons of botrytis and superb acidity. Long and lingering finish.