Continuing on with our revisit to Bordeaux is Barton & Guestier Bordeaux Blanc.  Made principally from Sauvignon Blanc (80%), Barton & Guestier Bordeaux Blanc is complimented by Sémillon (20%), a white varietal mainly used in another great French wine, Sauternais.  Where as Sauvignon Blanc is taut and pungent, the broad, clean character of Sémillon lifting up the Sauvignon Blanc.  As Sémillion is practically born in Bordeaux, does it lend great character to Barton & Guestier Bordeaux Blanc?

Sight:  A lighter gold with good notes of straw

Smell:  Apricot, quince, and unripe honeydew melon rind bounce around.  Notes of gooseberry and lime come to play with a hint of minerality, showing the dominance of the Sauvignon and French character.

Sip:  The body is bright, but somewhat fleshy from the start.  Unlike a pure, taut, Sauv, the Sémillon makes it’s presence felt here, rounding out the harder edges.   Gooseberry though makes it very clear what’s the predominant varietal, and comes in with lime, touches of floral elements, and touches of herbs.

Savor:  The ending is a little bitter, but overall very refreshing.  Miscellaneous citrus and gooseberry are the primary notes with a little bit of minerality.

Barton & Guestier Bordeaux Blanc is well balanced, if a little on the crisp and bitter side.  The Sémillon here is really helpful in keeping things a little more under control, but the Sauvignon Blanc is really off the chain.   Aggressive and powerful, the Sauvignon Blanc drives home the flavors, with a body boost (like Chardonnay).   Some of the notes of bitterness leave the palate a little roughed up, and looking for something to smooth things over.  Overall, Sauvignon Blanc fans will find something to like here, while others might find Barton & Guestier Bordeaux Blanc a little too aggressive.

Verdict:  Gooseberry, Lime, Herbal, Minerals
Rating: 77
Price: $10
Bordeaux, France