Château Le Payral Bergerac Sec 2008

Another wine from Bergerac, just up the road from Bordeaux with similar grape varieties; this one is a rich, waxy, leesy mixture of Sauvignon, Semillon and Muscadelle. On opening, the waxier Semillon dominates, with good mouthfeel and length. It's a bit understated and initially lacks the attention-grabbing complexity of an oaked Chardonnay or Riesling, say, but has great balance and texture.

Opening up with some air, the Sauvignon comes to the fore with typical aromas of gooseberries and cut grass - much more interesting at this point.

Food matches need a bit of thought as there's the weight of the Semillon and the herbaceousness of the Sauvignon to consider, but try well-seasoned, slow-roast chicken with herbs (thyme, rosemary and garlic) or mozzarella with pesto and cherry tomatoes.

Classy, well-made and thoroughly enjoyable.

Available from The Bottle Bank at £6.29 - provided for review.

Links:

The Bottle Bank - http://www.bottlebankwine.co.uk/