The 2010 Barton & Guestier Vouvray is sourced from contracted vineyards in the Vouvray AOC near the village of Tours inside the Loire Valley. The only grape grown in the Vouvray AOC is Chenin Blanc. The nature of Chenin Blanc changes with variations in the growing conditions, in cool growing seasons mostly dry Chenin Blanc’s are produced and in warmer years a larger percentage of sweet Chenin Blanc is made. In 2010, the weather in Vouvray was cool and 2010 vintage was rated as “very good”. Barton & Guestier is the largest wine brand in France, they were founded in 1725 by Thomas Barton. Barton & Guestier own their own estates and have contracts with over 250 vineyards thru out France. The alcohol content is 11.5%.
The color is extra virgin olive oil yellow. The nose is rich and delicate, equal parts tropical fruit, stone fruits and flowers. This is a medium to light weight Chenin Blanc, with bright, ripe fruit flavors. It tastes of unsweetened pineapple, fresh lime, apricot, peach, Anjou pear and tart lemon. The mid palate brings in some dusty minerality, along with some SweeTarts action. There is a solid dose of acidity running thru the body of the wine that causes the flavors to tingle on your tastebuds. The finish is reasonably full and long.
The Barton & Guestier Vouvray is a pleasing combination of fresh fruit and tart flavors, the acidity provides a nice backbone to give the mix of flavors some length. This would make an excellent food wine when paired with Firecracker shrimp or some spicy Thai fare. The Barton & Guestier Vouvray is a solid, delicious $10 Chenin Blanc.
