Our December white wine is a Sauvignon Blanc the comes from the small appellation of Coteaux du Giennois. This appellation is near Sancerre and Pouilley-Fume which are better known in the Loire Valley. While lesser known, the region produces small quantities of Sauvignon Blanc and Gamay wines that are high quality and more budget-friendly then those their neigbors produce. 2023 Christophe Monget Vigneron Coteaux du Giennois Sauvignon Blanc is a great example of these qualities. The Monget family had been grain farmers when they converted their small acreage to wine organically grown on flinty soil that is high in calcium carbonate. The result is a nice crisp and clean Sauvignon Blanc with a refreshing finish. Wine Enthusiast gives this a 90.
Our red selection comes after a customer asked if I could order a case of 2023 Domaine Gouron Croix de Bois Cabernet Franc. He had it at Our Harvest in Fenwick then bought a bottle for uncorking at Liquid Assets. Needless to say, buying a case with our discount was very attractive. I had not had a Cabernet Franc on our shelves for a while so I bought a case. I then decided it is a nice choice for wine club. This wine also reflects the terrior of the Loire Valley. The 35-50 year old grapes are grown in the Chinon appellation where Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc grapes are most prominent. This a medium-bodied red that can be served slightly chilled and drinks well alone or with food such as roasted chicken and salmon.
Both wines are perfect for holiday dinner parties since they complement just about any menu – except a rich rib roast! We have other choices for that! Both wines would be appreciated gifts as do any of our wines.
2023 Christophe Monget Vigneron Coteaux du Giennois Sauvignon Blanc, France
$21
This 100% Sauvignon Blanc has a nose composed of tangerine, grapefruit and lemon aromas with a subtle background of lily and elderberry. A wine with great freshness and vitality offering a consistent palate of citrus. A wine full of finesse and perfect tension and a finish of mineral notes Alcohol: 12.5%
2023 Domaine Gouron Croix de Bois Cabernet Franc, France
$21
This Cabernet Franc is fresh, pure and expressive. The aromas are crushed raspberry, wild herbs, and violets lead into a palate that is focused and energetic. The tannins are fine in this medium bodied wine. This is a perfect pairing with chicken fish and pork. Alcohol: 13%
