1996 Domaine du Clos Naudin Vouvray Sec About $18

This wine from Philippe Foreau’s Domaine du Clos Naudin is a fine example of dry Vouvray from the pretty little town of the same name? in France’s Loire Valley. Confusingly, wines from the Vouvray appellation can be also moelleux (sweet) or demi-sec (half-dry), but they’re all made primarily from Chenin Blanc.

With notes of honey, hazelnut and white peaches in the nose, this sec from the great 1996 vintage has just enough residual sugar to play off its crisp acidity and earthy mineral flavors. Lithe and vibrant, it’s a tremendously food-friendly wine, one that would be a fabulous match for Asian food or any highly spiced dishes. It’s just a baby, really, and will only improve with aging.

Available at the Wine House in West L.A. and Hi-Times Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, among others.