Cost: Average price $13
Where buy now: North Loop Wines & Spirits
Grapes: Chenin Blanc
Region: Vouvray – Loire Valley, France
Vintage: 2010
Vouvray is an area in the Loire Valley region of France that produces white wine from the Chenin Blanc grape. While it is Chenin Blanc wine, it is named “Vouvray” after the area the grapes are grown and the wine is produced. I know, a bit confusing. Is it Chenin Blanc or Vouvray? The answer is “yes”. Perhaps think of it like this: Chablis is a type of Chardonnay made in the French town of Chablis; Champagne hails from the Champagne region. [Or, perhaps consider that Milwaukee’s Best originates from, well, you know.]
Alright, let’s get back to this wine. Many folks like Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Vouvray is like a marriage of the two. It’s qualities vary depending on climate and soil. The one I am digging on right now is La Forcine demi-sec. “Demi-sec” literally translates to “medium-dry”. (Think of it more like “medium-sweet”.) This Vouvray is refreshing with fragrances and tastes of green apple and pineapple. It is lively with a medium-body (unlike a Chardonnay, which is heavier) with acidity and sweetness balancing one another.
This wine is a marvelous value at around $13. I’m surprised this wine isn’t well known, or widely available in restaurants, as it’s so food friendly. The subtly sweet tastes, combined with the apple and pineapple flavors, pair amply with fatty boombalatty sausages. I recently scored bacon/cheddar brats from Nueske’s- truly a match made in heaven. If you don’t often have the privilege of driving across Central Wisconsin (sarcasm, anyone?) and stop at Nueske’s in Wittenberg, I say pick up your favorite butcher’s sausages, grill ‘em up and toast with this Vouvray. Before long, you’ll be licking your fingers, and when no one is looking, the rim of your glass.