2013 Domaine Roland Lanvantureux Petit Chablis, Lignorelles, France $15
This month’s white selection is 2013 Roland Lavantureux Petit Chablis from the Chablis region in the northern most wine district in Burgundy. White Burgundy, or Chablis, is made from Chardonnay grapes. Approximately 85% of the Chablis are unoaked. What makes a “Petit Chablis” is a non-distinguishable difference in grape appearance but it does have a slightly different profile. This wine has a subtle minerality on the nose with slight tropical fruit. The palate shows a dry, silky mouthfeel with a long tropical fruit finish. This is a perfect pairing for rich fish (salmon and tuna.)
2013 Clos La Coutale Malbec, Cahors, France $22
The red selection is 2013 Clos La Coutale Malbec, from Cahors in Southwest France. The area around Cahors produces wine, primarily a robust and tannic red wine. To achieve the Cahors appellation a wine must be made from at least 70% Malbec (also called COT) grape, with a maximum of 30% Merlot or Tannat grape varieties added to the blend. Philippe Bernede, the winemaker at Clos La Coutale, uses 20% Merlot to soften the Malbec tannins. This wine is deep red and robust with dark fruit on the palate. As you begin to use your grill, keep this wine in mine for barbecued pork or beef – or anything smokey.
