Elegant French bottles from three exceptional producers. There is a beautiful Chenin Blanc, a lighter-bodied Gamay with some deeper tones, and a rich, silky Rhône blend. Daniel Bouland Côte de Brouilly Cuvée Mélanie 100% Gamay from old vines on the slopes of Côte de Brouilly, fermented with whole clusters and aged in neutral barrels. Bright red cherry, raspberry, and violet notes with some minerality and mild tannin for balance. Light enough to kick off the day or carry through the whole meal. Domaine Santa Duc Gigondas Clos Derrière Vieille 2021 Mostly Grenache with some Syrah and Mourvèdre from biodynamically farmed, high altitude vineyards in Gigondas. Dark fruit like blackberry and black cherry contrasts with dried herbs and mild pepper, with a fuller body and structured tannins from partial whole-cluster fermentation and aging in large oak casks. A natural fit for roasted or braised meats and richer dishes. Domaine de la Renière Chenin Signature Saumur Blanc 2019100% Chenin Blanc grown in limestone soils, fermented partly in tank and partly in older barrels. It has orchard fruit flavors of quince and apple with a touch of citrus. Versatile, with brightness and enough weight to carry through dinner.
