Simmonet-Febvre, Sauvignon Saint-Bris 2012, France
It may come as a surprise to learn that Burgundy, the world-renowned centre of excellence for Chardonnay wines, also produces Sauvignon Blanc. In the north of the region, not far from Chablis, the Saint-Bris appellation is dedicated to Sauvignon, with many Chablis producers – including Simmonet-Febvre – also producing wines there. This is aromatically powerful, with fresh-cut apple, but also something like waxy, zesty lime or lemon rind too. In the mouth it is pin-sharp, the cool, apple core precision of Chablis perhaps, but with a dollop of Sauvignon Blanc exuberance and fruity punch. It finishes dry, but full flavoured and textured. A fascinating change to taste one of Burgundy’s rarities. 88/100. £9.99, Waitrose.