Tasting Notes
"What a Treat!". The previous vintage of this wine was my greatest find on one of my wine hunts - and after a long day tasting it was sublime (and this from someone who is not the world's greatest fan of Sauvignon Blanc). And this 2016 vintage has exactly the same impact.
It is a classic Bordeaux Blanc from Pessac-Léognan said to be among France's greatest white wines, 80% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Sémillon. It has a medium to full body but also a crisp acidity which makes it really lively. Aromas and flavours abound - citrus fruit - lemon, grapefruit and nectarine - with apples, honey and a minerality which is the result of the deep gravelly & chalky soils that the 30+ year old vines grow in. This wine coats the mouth with its silky smooth texture and has a really long finish. It's quite full-bodied but not at all heavy. I love it!
Food Pairing
This wine will go well with fish and seafood but I can also see it as a great addition to the Christmas dinner table; its fuller body will not be beaten by the richness of the food and all the different flavours. The producer suggests drinking this wine with any grilled fish or dry goat's cheese.
Producer's Notes
"Shiny, limpid golden color. Bee wax, honey, peach and apricot aromas. Strong palate with good balance in terms of fat and acidity. The spicy aromas reappear with peppery flavors that are rate for a white wine. Intense finish."
Awards
17- points JancisRobinson.com Apr 2017
"Real depth and drive. Minerals and excitement. Clean dry finish. Energetic and bone dry."
89 points RobertParker.com Nov 2018
"The 2016 De France Blanc is scented of grapefruit, fresh green apples, lime leaves and lemongrass with a waft of fennel seed. The palate is medium-bodied, delicate, lively and citrusy with a mineral finish."
Decanter in Jan 2018 described Pessac-Leognan Blanc as "an often under-rated white"
