2012 Francois Chidaine, Touraine, Sauvignon Blanc, Loire Valley, France.
Chidaine, known for fantastic Montlouis and Vouvray Chenin Blanc and biodynamic vineyard practices also makes a lovely and value priced Sauvignon Blanc from Touraine, with 2012 again proving to be an intelligent and savvy buy. This Touraine from the Val de Loire is my go to Sauvignon Blanc for something easy and fresh, it always has plenty of flavor and character with nice mineral and fresh acidity. The 2012 is a juicy wine with a steely core showing lemon/lime, melon, grapefruit, hints of quince, gooseberry and wet stones, this is a light and citrusy wine that just does everything you’d expect, it is spot on and fun. Chidaine is a long time favorite of mine and while his more famous Chenin wines are built to age and are much more serious, this Sauvignon Blanc is meant to be drunk up young, best to enjoy over the next year, drink from 2014 to 2016. This Touraine is a perfect picnic wine and or super with cheeses or light seafood dishes.
($15 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
avail at www.sfwtc.com ($13.95)