Earl Delaille Domaine Salvard Cheverny White 2003

Domaine du Salvard Cheverny is produced from vines grown by the Delaille family, which has cultivated their 37 acre parcel since about 1930.  Location-wise, Cheverny in the east portion of Touraine near the village of Blois. This area is about 150 miles SSW of Paris, just south of the Loire River*.

This wine consists of primarily Sauvignon Blanc, plus a small amount of Chardonnay blended in. Kermit Lynch imports to the USA. 89.5 points. Color: Pale straw with a greenish tint. Aromas: Celeriac, starfruit, grapefruit, honeydew and grass. The mouthfeel is tart, crisp, and a bit peppery. Peppery grapefruit, green pea, and tart apple flavors, plus citrusy tartness and hints of mineral, resolve quickly in a palate cleansing bone dry finish. Closure: Real cork. Retail: $14. Value: Very nice.

*Pouilly-Fume, well known for Sauvignon Blanc, is east-southeast of Cheverny.

Comments

[g58]

The 2004 is also quite fine. Domaine de Montcy is another name to remember in Cheverny (if you can remember that name!) I had the 2001 Cuvée Clos des Cendres last fall and it's a wonderful start to any evening. Another more recent pick that is bit more refined is the Sauvignon Blanc made by André Lurton: http://weingolb.blogspot.com/2005/12/weingolb-wraps-up.html#MONTH shows my review and describes why I award it wine of the month.

[Jim Kaye]

Just had the 2005 last night. Very good stand in for a Sancerre at one third less cost.

[Dave H.]

I had this wine several years ago. And haven't been able to get it out of my head. Found it in a small shop downtown east village NYC recently, then they stopped carrying it. Now that I know the importer I should be able to get my hands on some. Thanks!

[Felipe Rudge]

Last year (or maybe the year before) we've had the 1999, which was perfect. Still crisp and that pleasant smooth acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc. Grilled fish and butter vegetables. Looking for more 'round here. Cheers!