Wine on the Radio - April 9, 2004

Springtime Taste and Chenin Blanc               Recommendations

Here's a question for you:

Do you think there are certain times of year and certain wines that seem to just go together?

And when you think of Easter and springtime, think Chenin Blanc.

From eggs Benedict at brunch or that honey glazed dinner ham, Chenin Blanc fits right in. It has a rich peachy flavor and is often just a little bit sweet. That's a springtime taste as recognizable as the Easter bunny's marshmallow eggs!

There are tasty Chenin Blanc from Washington and California which are lively and affordable . . . and some from South Africa for you adventurous types.

Vouvray is the Chenin Blanc standard. This French village in the Loire Valley turns out wines that age and mellow with honey like flavor.

From dry styles to those labeled "demi sec" or "half dry" and sweeter, these are luscious wines to try . . . Easter time, springtime or really just about anytime.

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Chenin Blanc - Our Picks and Recommendations . . . All Prices Approximate

Callaway 2001 Chenin Blanc Dry $8
California
Winemaker's Notes
Peach, pear and pineapple flavors with a fresh, crisp finish highlighted by aromas of honeysuckle

2002 Husch Chenin Blanc "La Ribera Vineyards" Mendocino $9
Aromas of pear, honeysuckle, banana, and pineapple entice you to take the first sip

2001 Chappellet Chenin Blanc Napa Valley $10
Sweet honeydew melon and peach aromas are layered with accents of vanilla, orange zest, and spicy oak

B&G 2002 Vouvray $10
Loire, France
Winemaker's Notes
Brilliant straw color. Fresh and aromatic, mixing mineral, floral and fruity notes (exotic fruit). Lively with a certain roundness in the mouth, with good sweetness/acidity balance and a nice mineral finish

Baobab 2001 Chenin Blanc $10
South Africa
Winemaker's Notes
Lively lemon color with abundant pear and apricot aromas; crisp lime and spice on the palate, with a mouth filling texture and a clean tangy finish

2001 Dom. Bourillon Dorleans Vouvray "La Coulee dArgent Vieilles Vignes Sec" $12
WS 88 points, The ripe, lush texture finds a partner in the vibrant acidity, keeping this delicate and focused Vouvray gliding with peach, citrus blossom and mineral flavors

2000 Foxen Chenin Blanc Santa Barbara County $15
WA 87 points, Foxens 2000 Chenin Blanc reveals a captivating nose of flowers and ripe tropical fruit. It is a medium-bodied, clean, fruit-driven, fresh effort with surprising texture and length