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Henri Bourgeois – Stellar Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley

Considered by most experts as one of the top producers of Sauvignon Blanc in the French Loire Valley (ie:  Sancerre), Henri Bourgeois is actually based in Chavignol, a village known for it’s goat cheese.  Since 1950 his estate has grown from only 2 hectares to an impressive 65 hectares, still having to buy half of his grapes from local growers to fill his needs.  We cary four excellent examples of his wines, all slightly different from one another depending on the exact area from where it comes.  All are the 2007 vintage.

1.  Petit Bourgeois – Sauvignon Blanc – Vin de Pays du Val de Loire (from the valley of the Loire river)

First up is the “Petit”, sourcing its fruit from all over the valley.   It’s very light pale in color, but doesn’t taste light.  After the beautiful bouquet of green grapefruit, pear, and melon, you get a nice mouthfeel on the palate of the same.  With balanced acidity and relatively low alcohol (only 12 %), it is very refreshing to drink.  Made for lighter fish dishes or salads, it was a big hit with our Thanksgiving turkey (the white meat, that is – Fleurie Beaujolais with the drumsticks).  Uncomplicated, but not simple by any means, it’s great for Sauvignon Blanc drinkers that don’t want it too dry or too much of a grassy edge.  Reg $19.99 / Sale $17.99

2.  Quincy Blanc – “Haut Victoire”

This tiny appellation, Quincy, is located 40 miles west of Sancerre on the left (south) bank of the charming Cher River.  After delicate citrus and white flower aromas, you taste bright fruits of lemon/lime and pear.  Elegant but still rich and round on the palate, with fresh lively acidity, and subtle dried grass, chalky and gunflinty notes, this will appeal to Sauvignon Blanc and Chablis drinkers alike.  Try it with trout.  $19.99

3.  Sancerre – “Les Baronnes”

Coming from the major “creme de la creme” region of Sancerre, this is an always reliable and classic Sauvignon Blanc.  Loaded  with goooseberry, grass, and citrus, you also get mouthwatering lush grapefruit and lemon fruit leading to a zesty, tangy finish.  Great with fancy steamed mussels in butter sauce or simply with tuna sandwiches, this is also a good choice with goat cheese from France or Holland, or our Montgomery Cheddar (cow) from England.  A real bargain now.  Reg $28.99 / Sale $19.99

4.  Sancerre – “Le MD de Bourgeois”

The top of the line, this Sancerre comes from the slopes of Les Monts Damnes.  Fullest of the group with more power and toasty notes, it still has excellent focus and clean minerality.  Treat yourself and try this wine with richer fish such as salmon or swordfish and flavorful poultry dishes.  89 points – Wine Spectator.  Reg $39.99 / Sale $29.99

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