Domaine de Beraut (France) Cuvee Harmonie 2001
This terrific little white wine comes from the Cotes de Gascogne, not far from Bordeaux, where the Sichel family have many interests, including Chateaux Palmer and d’Angludet. The domaine is run by the Beraut family, who blend five different varieties in this wine, from lesser-known grapes of the French south like Gros Manseng (15%), to familar names like Chardonnay (20%) and Savignon Blanc (15%). The nose is wonderfully aromatic and pungent, with distinctive gooseberry and lychee fruit, and notes of succulent tangerine. On the palate it is deliciously juicy and quite full, with weighty passionfruit and waxy citrus flavours, and again that exotic lychee note. There is excellent balancing acidity, and a long, powerful, yet pure finish. Excellent stuff at the price. Safeway 4.49.
