La Chapelle (France) White 2008
I just love this little wine from the Vin de Pays de Cotes de Gascone, a blend of typical Colombard, Gros Manseng and Ugni Blanc with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Screw-capped for freshness, it has a delicate but aromatic nose that at first seems dominated by the grassy and elderflower character of the Sauvignon, but then an undertow of peachy fruit and lemon rind adds interest. On the palate it is punchy and vibrant, but it is not the more obvious asparagus and green bean punch of Sauvignon, but a decisive, mouthwatering panoply of citrus, white fruit and minerals with masses of zest and life. I drank this to great effect with an asparagus and pea risotto. £5.95, FromVineyardsDirect.com