Mary Taylor seeks wine producers who have not been discovered by the import market. She seeks sustainable wines that speak of the region. Pascal Biotteau Anjou Blanc (2020) is 100% Chenin Blanc grown in Anjou region where a chalky limestone gives a lighter expression for Chenin Blanc. Sophie Siadou Valencay (2020) is a blend of Gamay, Pinot Noir, and Côt (or a French Malbec grape.) Valencay is a region known for its goat cheese so Ron has included a delicious salmon stuffed with goat cheese in his wine notes.
Mary Taylor, Pascal Biotteau Anjou Blanc (2020) $15
This a lovely young example of Chenin Blanc. The bouquet is bright and nicely high-toned in personality out of the blocks, wafting from the glass in a mix of apple, sweet quince, chalky soil tones, a touch of bee pollen and a top note of white lilies. On the palate the wine is bright, full-bodied, focused and rock solid at the core, with excellent transparency and cut, zesty acids and a long, complex and beautifully balanced finish. Alcohol: 12%
Mary Taylor, Sophie Siadou Valençay (2020) $17
This blend is 30% Pinot Noir, 35% Côt (Malbec), 35% Gamay. Expressing all the lightness and elegance of its high percentage of Pinot Noir, plus a wonderful floral quality, it also reveals its leaner, more structured “Malbec” side, expressed through a sturdy wash of tannins that balance its succulent flavors of raspberries, blackcurrant, and spice. A must to drink with wonderful Valencay goat cheese. Alcohol: 13.5%
