Learning about the whole of French wines just to find a few new summer refreshers can seem daunting. It's true, most people avoid the French section in the wine shop — not because they don't know sensational wines are awaiting them — but because it's just too much. The good news is you don't need to know more than these two words: Vouvray (voo-vray) and Sancerre (sahn-sair). These wines — pronunciation given to build your confidence when asking your wine merchant where they are located in your retail store — are white wines from the Loire Valley.
Sancerre is made from the sauvignon blanc. You may be thinking you don't enjoy this grape and have tasted it countless times in the past. But it's important to understand (as a great writer once said) "All Sancerres are sauvignon blancs but not all sauvignon blancs are Sancerres." Many wines from this grape can have searing acidity almost void of any fruit flavors or complexity. But this region's expression of sauvignon blanc is more predictable in its style, which is generally balanced with refreshing acidity and expressive aromas of lemon, lime, grass and a minerality note. The word coming to mind when I savor this wine is elegance. There have been many occasions when my guests have commented throughout the evening on this "incredibly delicious white wine" to be taken aback when told it's made from the sauvignon blanc grape.
Vouvray is made from the chenin blanc grape. Unlike the distinct expression of excellent Sancerre, when you begin exploring Vouvray you will quickly find many styles ranging from dry to sweet and still to sparkling. With a little exploration you will find a unique style that you love, I promise. Vouvray aromas and tastes are usually intense with pear, apple, honeysuckle and even notes of ginger and beeswax if noble rot is allowed.
The Dutch were so much in love with this grape that during the Age of Exploration they planted chenin blanc extensively throughout South Africa. As you realize your obsession and love for this grape you will find many gems there inspired by the French styles an excellent region for values.
So, when looking for your next summer white wine, no need for any confusion. Simply practice the pronunciation, taste the wine and thank me later for your new-found French white wine favorites.
SANCERRE
2018 Daniel Chotard Sancerre, France (about $26)
2018 Pascal Jolivet Sancerre, France (about $29)
2018 Sauvion Sancerre, France (about $45)
2018 Aime Boucher Sancerre, France (about $29)
2017 Chateau De Sancerre, France (about $32)
VOUVRAY
2018 Laurent Kraft Vouvray, France (about $22)
2017 Dom Pichot De Peu de la Mor Vouvray, France (about $19)
2018 Domaine de la Poultiere Tuffo Vouvray, France (about $22)
2018 Champalou Vouvray, France (about $24)
2018 Clos De Nouys Vouvray, France (about $22)
2018 Chateau Moncontour Vouvray, France (about $15)
Lorri Hambuchen is a member of London's Institute of Wines and Spirits. Email:
uncorked@thewinecenter.com