2004 Chateau Soucherie Anjou Blanc

A classic Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley from Domaine de la Soucherie. A brilliant pale gold, the 2004 Anjou blanc has a hint of slate and lime zest in the nose. Its crisp acidity and minerality, along with the honeyed quality of ripe Chenin Blanc, make it a terrific wine with food. I’d drink it with oysters on the half shell, clam chowder, steamed mussels, lobster and even a roast chicken.

It’s an exceptional wine for the price, from an estate that makes wines with a great price-quality ratio across the board. At under $12, the Anjou blanc is an impressive bargain.

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Quick swirl

Region: Loire Valley

Price: About $12

Style: Classic Chenin Blanc

Food it goes with: Oysters, chowders, steamed shellfish, lobster

Where you find it: Silverlake Wine in Los Angeles, (323) 662-9024

-- S. Irene Virbila