Les Bois Martin Sauvignon Blanc

This cuvée of 2008 Touraine Sauvignon Blanc from Joel Delaunay only bears his name in tiny print on the back label and is otherwise billed as “Le Bois Martin.” (For a review of other cuvées, see under “Delaunay” elsewhere in this report.) Featuring caraway, brine, diverse green herbs, and honeydew melon, it offers a pungent nose and a refreshing if rather glassy-textured palate, finishing with juicy refreshment and a pleasantly stimulating combination of herbal bitterness and salinity. I would plan to enjoy it over the next 6–9 months.

A soft, relatively ripe style of Sauvignon Blanc, moving towards white fruits, even hints of lychee spice. But the wine also has an herbaceous element, showing young, green plum juiciness. It is simple,fresh and attractive to drink now.

Robert Kacher has been one of my favorite importers for many years. He has a knack for finding fabulous wines at very reasonable prices. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, this is a very fruity wine that is nicely balanced with acidity. After fermentation, the wine was left to rest on its fine lees to maximize the development of its unique characteristics. It is best paired with fish and seafood, or enjoyed by itself as an apéritif.