Wednesday, January 30, 2013

2011 Chteau de Bonhoste Bordeaux Blanc Wine of the Week

2013_01_30-Bonhoste.jpgWine of the Week: 2011 Chteau de Bonhoste Bordeaux Blanc
Region & Country: Bordeaux, France
Price: $11

Affordable and Bordeaux are not two words that we usually see together. Well, I recommend that you try this one. A delicious refreshing everyday wine, ready to drink, and one that can be enjoyed for up to two years.

Pale, youthful, lemony in color, the nose is lively with lots of bright citrus aromas, notes of stone fruit and a hint of waxy honeycomb. Easy drinking certainly, but very refreshing and packed with vibrant juicy flavors. While predominantly made from Sauvignon Blanc, the inclusion of Semillon adds an extra textural dimension and the 10% Muscadelle adds elegant floral notes. Moderate length and a clean fresh finish.

At the table: Fresh, lively and brimming with juicy flavors this wine is one to either enjoy on its own as an aperitif, or enjoy with a variety of fish or poultry dishes. The racy acidity will cut through any rich creamy sauce. Sole or flounder with a beurre blanc or sorrel sauce is a favorite of mine with this wine.

About White Bordeaux, Chteau Bonhoste and this 2011 Bordeaux Blanc Sec: When we think of Bordeaux wine we automatically think red. Rightly so, as the majority of wine produced in Bordeaux is red. However, white Bordeaux is making a well-deserved revival. Like the reds, white Bordeaux is typically a blend and made from Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and a small percentage of Muscadelle. The traditional style is oaked. However, today, more of the wines are made in a fresh, unoaked style.

Chteau Bonhoste is a small, family-owned property on the right bank, not that far from the famous commune of St Emilion. This 2011 dry white Bordeaux is a blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Semillon and 10% Muscadelle. It was fermented in stainless steel and bottled early to retain its lively and youthful freshness.

Mary Gorman-McAdams, MW (Master of Wine), is a New York based wine educator, freelance writer and consultant. In 2012 she was honored as a Dame Chevalier de L'Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne

Previous Wine of the Week: 2008 Domaine Carneros Brut Sparkling Wine

(Image: T. Edward)


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