An Outstanding White Bordeaux

by Andrew Chalk

Château de Chantegrive Cuvée Caroline, Graves ($32)

PERSONAL IMPRESSIONS 

A classic white Bordeaux blend (50% semillon, 45% sauvignon blanc, with a trace amount, 5%, sauvignon gris). It offers the bright acidity and herbaceous flavors associated with sauvignon blanc buttressed by the richness and smoothness of semillon. This particular instance is an especially enjoyable example. The two forces seem to be in perfect balance. 

The winery notes below give clues to the techniques used to create this result. 

Definitely a hit with roast chicken, pork or pasta with white sauce, try this wine to discover how impressive this blend can be. 

WORDS FROM THE WINERY

“This wine was created in 1988 and was one of the first Bordeaux white wines to be produced à la Burgundy: aged on the fine lees in 225-litre barrels, and regularly stirred. It is so refreshing, so refined, with delicate aromas of white peach, acacia flower, and honeysuckle. Unctuous yet light, a little mineral in its youth, it becomes even more generous, reminiscent of brioche, as the years pass”

Sample.