Domaine Bellevue Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2016

Touraine Sauvignon has long provided an affordable yet authentic and stylish alternative to the Loire’s most famous name wines, a description that certainly fits the wines of Patrick Vauvy. He took over his family’s estate in 1985, scrutinised every stage of production in the vineyard and cellar, and now makes some of the best wines for miles around. Just try this 2016. In the vineyard, he is lucky to have up to a metre of silty top soil on a bed of chalk and clay, which ensures excellent drainage and deliciously concentrated fruit. Add in late picking and no wonder this wine is so intense. Vinified in Patrick’s modern cellar, the wine is deliciously fresh. Chill down and serve chilled with asparagus, pan-fried fish or goat’s cheese dishes.