Exploring 2017 White Bordeaux

For our June tasting, the Toronto Vintners Club explored the elegance and vibrancy of White Bordeaux wines from the remarkable 2017 vintage. Known for their crisp, refreshing character and expert craftsmanship, white Bordeaux wines are truly special, and what better way to kick off summer than with a lineup of such distinctive bottles?

The evening began with a lively reception featuring Henri Augan Brut Crémant de Bordeaux. With its delicate aromas of orchard fruit, citrus zest, and a touch of brioche, this sparkling wine offered bright acidity and fine bubbles that perfectly set the stage for what was to come.

After the reception, guests were seated to enjoy the formal tasting. Our guest speaker was Stephen Ranger, founder of Range Wine, a boutique fine wine agency specializing in award winning wines. Stephen provided insightful commentary on Bordeaux’s white wine regions and grape varieties primarily Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and a touch of Muscadelle. This engaging introduction deepened appreciation for the wines while appetizers designed to complement each pour enhanced the experience.

The tasting order was carefully arranged from the wines with the highest percentage of Sauvignon Blanc to those with the least, highlighting the gradual shift from zesty freshness to greater depth and roundness.

• 2017 Caillou Blanc de Talbot (83% Sauvignon Blanc, 17% Sémillon): With earthy minerality and citrus-driven freshness, this wine displayed structure and intensity, making it a crisp and refreshing start.

• 2017 Olivier Blanc (75% Sauvignon Blanc, 23% Sémillon, 2% Muscadelle): Bursting with green orchard fruit and a touch of tomato leaf, its energy and zest made it a lively progression.

• 2017 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc (70% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Sémillon): Ripe pears, honeysuckle, and chalky minerality created a layered and racy palate with plenty of drive.

• 2018 Carbonnieux Blanc (60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon): Crisp apple, crushed stone, and nettle offered a sophisticated mix of vibrancy and texture.

• 2017 Lespault-Martillac Blanc (55% Sauvignon Blanc, 45% Sémillon): Bright citrus and floral notes mingled with almonds and mint, giving this wine depth and aromatic charm.

• 2017 Latour Martillac Blanc (50% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% Sémillon): Singing with ripe apples, nectarines, and green guava, this balanced and expressive wine stood out as the crowd favorite of the evening.

• 2017 Blanc de Lynch Bages (50% Sauvignon Blanc, 33% Sémillon, 17% Muscadelle): Exotic fruit, honeysuckle, and cedar lent elegance and vibrancy, carried by a refreshing finish.

• 2017 Château Doisy-Daëne Blanc (100% Sémillon): With aromas of white peach, grapefruit, and passion fruit wrapped in beeswax and thyme, it delivered a zippy, citrus-driven close to the lineup.

  
  

Once all the wines had been savoured, guests and members were invited to rank their personal favourites. After much discussion and sharing of impressions, the 2017 Château Latour Martillac Blanc emerged as the winning wine of the evening, celebrated for its harmony, freshness, and depth. Not only did was this wine the top pick it was also very reasonably priced compared to the other wines in the lineup. This proves that when wines are tasted blind, it eliminates preconceived ideas about the label and/or price. Then the wines are appreciated for their characteristics and quality alone. And when the favourite is under $50 it's a bonus!

This tasting beautifully showcased the versatility and sophistication of White Bordeaux, while the thoughtful pairing of wines, education, and camaraderie made for an unforgettable summer kickoff!