A superb, rich, dry white with ageing potential from south west France and, at the other end of the spectrum, two appealingly bright and breezy whites from Viña Ventisquero’s Yali range, sales of which support conservation of the Yali wetland in Chile, the UK’s Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Operation Migration in the US and Canada and Birdwatch Ireland.
2008 Château Montus Pacherenc du Vic-Bihl Sec, France
Very ripe and exotic, tropical fruit aromas with plenty of new oak. Dense, concentrated fruit on the palate, intense, citrus flavour and acidity and very rich, seductive texture. Perfect balance, so can be drunk now, but will age beautifully, becoming more layered and complex. 14% abv. Drink with rich poultry dishes, lobster, fish such as sea bass, cheeses such as Comté and goats' cheeses.
£20.99, Roberts & Speight, 01482 870717; The Vine King, 01293 771 305
2010 Yali National Reserva Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley, Chile
Zesty and elegant, with elderflower, lemon peel and a hint of pineapple on the nose, a zingy, pineappley palate with a touch of dill and a pithy, lemon finish. 13% abv.
On offer at £6.39 (from £8.39), Morrisons
2010 Yali National Reserva Viognier, Colchagua, Chile
No oak, no malolactic fermentation, pure varietal character. Floral, orchard-fruit nose tinged with fresh mint; white peach, citrus fruit and fresh acidity on the palate. 13.5% abv.
On offer at £6.39 (from £7.99) if you buy 2 or more, Majestic
