Calvet Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux 2010

Whilst at the upper levels - the lofty heights of First Growth chateaux - white Bordeaux is something of an also-ran, in the everyday range, the quality of the whites can be as good as anything else similarly priced.

With a more southerly climate than the Loire, white Bordeaux made from Sauvignon Blanc tends to be fuller, riper and bigger, sometimes with a bit of oak or waxy Sémillon in the blend.

On the nose, this Calvet Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc is herbaceous, with nettles and gooseberries and hints of grapefruit zest.

On both the palate and the finish, the rounded acidity and minerality dominate with only hints of varietal herbaceous aromas.

Overall, it is well-made, balanced and more of a classic food wine than, say, tropical New World examples.

With a relatively low 12% alcohol, it actually feels a little more like a Loire Sauvignon and would go well with the traditional match of goat's cheese or white fish, such as plaice.

It has a Commendation from the IWC which feels about right for the quality / price / value.

£6.49 from Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrison's, Waitrose and the Co-operative.

Provided for review.

Links

Tesco - http://www.tesco.com/wine/
Sainsbury's - http://www.sainsburys.co.uk/sol/index.jsp
Morrison's - http://www.morrisons.co.uk/
Waitrose - http://www.waitrosewine.com/
The Co-operative - http://www.co-operative.coop/food/food-and-drink/drink/Wine/