So Fresh, So Clean (Episode Seven)

Back up on my B.S. - but this time, with a few yummy white wines for you to enjoy this summer. Keep scrolling for the wine notes and makes you watch this week’s episode too!

WINE #1 - 2019 Raats Chenin Blanc ($11)

Fun fact about the Chenin Blanc grape - it is one of two white wine grapes - Chardonnay is the other - that can grow in a cool, moderate and warm climate. This makes the grape rather versatile, with the ability to create a range of dry to sweet wines.

ON THE NOSE: It’s unoaked, so on the nose, I’m getting lime, some dustiness/minerality, apple, some warm spice (maybe clove?), 

ON THE PALATE: It’s a light-bodied dry wine with medium acidity, flinty texture, some minerality, a warm spicy feel from the citrus and crispness from tropical fruit. The flavor of pineapple coats the back of the palate with a long, clean finish. 

PAIRS WELL WITH: Because Chenin Blanc is versatile, it can be paired with almost anything. This South African Chenin Blanc specifically would pair well with seafood dishes, avocado - yes, that includes avocado toast - and sushi. 

WINE #2 -  2018 Domaine des Justices Bordeaux Blanc ($15)

Next up, a 2018 Domain des Justice Bordeaux Blanc. Something to note about Bordeaux Blanc wine is that it is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon - and these two grapes are usually blended together because they balance each other out. This wine is 60 percent Sauvignon Blanc and 40 percent Semillon.

ON THE NOSE: some sort of stone fruit...like papaya? Citrus flavor quality - I want to say lemon. It’s not gasoline, but it smells like minerals or saline. There are definitely grassy notes. Some honeysuckle for sure. It’s aromatic, which means the smell of the wine has no problem with jumping into your nostrils. 

ON THE PALATE: A medium-bodied wine with high acidity, and flavors of green apple; minerality, herbaceous quality from asparagus, and green pepper. It’s a unique blend for sure - there’s a round mouthfeel that brings everything together for a long, clean finish.

PAIRS WELL WITH: Because this is a light-bodied wine, you’ll want your food to match that same mood. Chicken and shrimp are two proteins that would pair well with Bordeaux Blanc, as well as goat and feta cheese if you’re looking for some wine to elevate your cheese snacking.