Summer in a glass – a selection of whites from Bordeaux

When summer is as generous as this year, many of us opt for white wine. Lighter, refreshing and happy to be chilled. The following four whites represent different styles and can be a fantastic complement to dinner parties and picnics alike.

Name: Le Coin Sauvignon Gris 2012

Grape Blend - Sauvignon Gris

Country:  France

Appellation: Bordeaux AOC

ABV: 12.5%

Tasting notes:

Pale gold in colour. Beautifully intense nose exploding with lime, passion fruit, mature gooseberry and hints of papaya. Fresh on the palate with delicately creamy character, round fruit, excellent acidity and long citrus finish.

Pairing: grilled vegetables, mild cheese, light fish dishes

RRP: £10.49

Name: Le C du ChaiBordeaux 2011

Grape Blend - Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon

Country:  France

Appellation: Bordeaux AOC

ABV: 14.5%

Tasting notes:

Lightly gold in colour. Beautifully intense and mature on the nose with hints of apricots, vanilla, and ripe tangerines. Full bodied and rich with flavors of mature stone fruit, baked apples and subtle oak. Mild acidity with plumy marmalade note and a touch of bitterness on the finish.

Pairing: crab, lobster, meaty fish plates.

RRP: £13.99

Name: LaithwaitesSauvignon Blanc 2012

Grape Blend - Sauvignon Blanc

Country:  France

Appellation: Bordeaux AOC

ABV: 12.0%

Tasting notes:

Brilliant white gold in colour with a delicate spritz. Classy citrus fruit nose with hints of lime and gooseberry. Minerally, sharp and zesty with excellent acidity, round and fruity palate and persistent finish.

Pairing: goat cheese, lightly spicy dishes

RRP: £8.99

Name: La Voûte 2011

Grape Blend - Chardonnay

Country: France

Appellation: Vin de France

ABV: 14.0%

Tasting notes: Pale gold and shiny. Buttery and nutty nose with hints of white flowers.

Great body and fantastic acidity, well integrated oak and flavours of peaches, apricots, white and red currant. Persistent rich finish.

Pairing: pasta with creamy sauces, grilled white meats

RRP: £12.99

All samples courtesy of Laithwaites.