The Loire Valley is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc wines and its Chateaux. Cheverny is one of those places that offers excellent example of both. It is located 20 km south of the city of Blois, on the edge of a beautiful forest where kings used to hunt. The fascinating aspect of this white wine is that, uniquely among the "Sauvignon" appellation, it actually has a rule that obliges the producers to blend in 20-30% of Chardonnay. The result, surprisingly, does not seem any less redolent of the grass and melon tones associated with this bracing varietal. Perhaps the greatest service performed by the Chardonnay in this cuvee is to add a certain roundness to the texture without detracting in any way from its resolutely dry, stony, and snappy character. Pascal Bellier is a youngish, serious-minded producer who routinely picks up gold medals at the annual Loire Wine Fair in Angers. One whiff of this aromatic beauty, followed by one sappy mouthful, will make you understand why. With its moderate alcohol, frank fruit expression and lively acidity, it makes for an excellent aperitif wine. It would also successfully accompany light fish dishes and, for those who like them, the Loire's famous goat's cheese.
