From a family vineyard in the Loire valley spanning five generations, this sauvignon blanc from the Cheverny appellation is one of the jewels of Kermit Lynch's portfolio of French imports. The Delaille family has almost completely dedicated Domaine du Salvard to producing bright and lively Sauvignon Blanc with some distinctiveness.
The Loire region is one of France's most productive -- in terms of wine, grand chateaus, and culture. Situated in the middle-west of the country, its eponymous river gives the region slightly higher average temperatures and varying growing seasons. New vintages often differ wildly from previous ones, and with an expressive variety like sauvignon blanc this can result in wines with ample character. Domaine du Salvard's 2011 sauvignon blanc certainly doesn't try to hide what it is, with its sharp and classic vegetal nose that mellows to bright citrus tones. The citrus persists on the palate, but seems to be dominated by almost puckering green apple that sticks around well after swallowing your first sip. $17.99
