Tag Archives: Vermentino

Approach with Abandon

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Approach with Abandon

Biodynamics has existed for nearly a century and is a trusted method for many small and large producers around the world. The varietals in this French white might not be all that familiar to you, but they are absolutely worth getting to know!

Vermentino is similar in style to Sauvignon Blanc, so is an easy transition for anyone looking to try something new without getting too adventurous.

When paired together with the more popular, medium-bodied, low tannin Viognier, you get a beautiful blend that is a nicely balanced wine.


The harvest is made at night to protect the grapes from oxydation and preserve optimum freshness. Grapes are then directly pressed without maceration, the wine is cooled down and left one fine lees. The two grapes varieties are blended and aged on fine lees in neutral content to bring complexity to the wine.


Viognier can be a tough sell around here.  I’m very glad the Goddess of Wine persists, with new adventures like this. Very worthwhile choice for the Mystery Case.

Thoughts of Roses and lilies come to mind..  It is surprisingly Fresh.Tingly.  but not effervescent.


La Tournee Ferraton Vermentino Viognier

$19.99 Regularly $21.99

13.5% Alcohol

Great 2021 Value

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Purchased by Michel Chapoutier in 1999, Bila-Haut is located in the best part of the Languedoc called the Ctes du Roussillon. Historically the site was one of the first areas planted for viticulture by the Greek Mariners and has been continuously a wine region known for making top quality wines. The House of Bila, the translation of the name of the estate, was once a house of refuge for the Knights Templar, which is why their cross is symbolically used on the label. 

“Bila Haut’s entry-level white is a super value. A blend of Grenache Blanc (60%), Roussanne, Macabeu (20%), and then smaller amounts of Marsanne and Vermentino,  the Ctes du Roussillon les Vignes de Bila Haut Blanc is richly textured and extremely refreshing.

The Grenache gives the wine the citrus with hints of lime and adds medium body, a roundness and hint of melon in the mid-palate. The Macabeo supplies the crisp mineral flavors with an almost saline note in the lingering finish. It is WAY better than Sauvignon Blanc and much more unique and rare.


It really shines at the dinner table, as well as just as a refreshing pick me up relaxing with friends.


ROUSSILLON BLANC – CHAPOUTIER BILA HAUT

$16.99 regularly $18.99

12.5% Alcohol

UPC: 03391182410938

High Anticipation

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A grape we have had only once before by itself. Vermentino.  The colour is bright and a very expressive nose.  The tase is rounded with afruity undertone. 


It’s very refreshing.  Medium bodied and a medium to low sweetness.


Next trip to the government or private dairy will include a look for more of this grape.

PAYS D’OC VERMENTINO – PAUL MAS ALLNATT 2019

$19.99

13% alcohol

UPC: 03760040436159

I am allowed out unchaperoned

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We were in a different hood for our daily hoof and I thought I would check out what the Caddy Bay Private Liquor Store had to offer. 


I chose it because the blend looked interesting.  Grenache Blanc (part of the Chateauneuf du Pape blend), Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin, Vermentino, Chasan and Mauzac


This Paul Mas vineyard hails from the Aude Valley of Languedoc and produces good value at a reasonable price.


It’s not citrusy, not sharp.  It went very nicely with baked halibut steaks.


Claude Val white.  $12.99