Bordeaux Blanc, 2020. Chateau La Rose du Pin

The Ducourt Family began their journey to becoming one of Bordeaux largest entities in 1858 with just a few acres of vines. Today they own over 1,000 acres of vineyards covering 13 separate chateaux in Entre-Deux-Mers and Saint-Emilion. Trying to calculate the value of this entity is impossible.

Besides their own incredible reputation for quality, Jonathan Ducourt is also a sought-after consulting winemaker for several other chateaux. He doesn't mince words, speaks his mind and, most importantly, knows of what he speaks. Du Pin is located in the tiny appellation of Romagne, close to Saint-Emilion. It is mostly known for red wine as only 35 acres are planted to Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Yet, with most of the Bordelaise who produce both, they seem more interested in discussing their whites, possibly because it is so rare.

There is something about the limestone, chalk and clay soils here that allow the Sauvignon Blanc grape to rise to its greatest heights. It's as if you can almost taste the rocks in the vineyard as they cling to the palate. And then, magically release their plethora of stone fruit and herbs followed by the stingingly extracted finish. The Semillon adds the refreshingly stylish fruit to Sauvignon Blancs' rigid stance. The combination is a classic Yin and Yang altercation begging for foods as simple as a grilled salmon with tomato concasse or charcuterie plate featuring Prosciutto di Parma, capocollo, mortadella and the classic cheese of all time, Reggiano Parmigiano. Heaven awaits.

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