From: Vouvray, France

Varietal: Chenin Blanc

Christophe Boutet took over the family estate Domaine Boutet Saulnier in 1997 after his father’s death. Since 2011, Christophe and his wife have practiced sustainable agriculture on their 12 ha of vineyards and are moving towards organic viticulture. A portion of their wines is biodynamic. The Boutets have excellent vineyards in the small Vouvray appellation, with the famous Domaine Huet's vines as neighbors to their vineyards.

Tasting Notes: This is a dry example that is all about acidity and freshness. A deep and refined nose with fine chalky notes intermixed with juicy and well-concentrated aromas of lemon and wildflower, and quince fruit. It’s full of energy, lazer-like acidity, and a very long finish.

Pairing: I love a good dry Chenin with all sorts of cheese, as it can simultaneously cleanse your palate and provide some of the fruit and honeyed characteristics you look for in cheese plate accompaniments. This would also be a great companion to richer seafood dishes, think salmon or shrimp scampi. A goat cheese salad or fried goat cheese balls would also hit the spot!