Back in the 1980s and ’90s, I sold hundreds of cases of Domaine Du Tariquet Côtes de Gascogne white. Made from the Ugni Blanc grape, the grape of Cognac, it was (and still is) a delicious little bargain white. Importer Robert (Bobby) Kacher now brings a higher end white from this same estate, and it is well worth your attention. This one is made from the Gros Manseng grape, producing a rich, opulent wine with unabashed sweetness. Those who enjoy the demi-sec style of Vouvray will love this white with a variety of foods — or all on its own. Its name, “Premières Grives,” refers to the Thrushes that arrive at harvest time — no doubt to dine on these grapes!
2015 Domaine Du Tariquet Premières Grives $17 srp
Deep yellow-golden color. Nose of fresh peaches, apricots — a potpourri of stone fruit! The grapefruit overtones are fresh and beguiling. Flavors are richly textured and honeyed with the tiniest hint of spritz. This is a sumptuous, fruity wine with excellent acids to keep it fresh. It would match well with Hunan or Vietnamese cuisine. Heck of a springtime sipper as well. Drink now-2017.
91/100 points
To purchase this bottle of wine or to find something similar from a wide selection of wines, email or call Hope Valley Bottle Shop at 919-403-5200. Don’t miss their free wine tastings every Saturday evening from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Find your favorite bottle or expand your palate with something new from Hope Valley Bottle Shop — South Durham’s original bottle shop. Visit them at the Woodcroft Shopping Center or at hvbottleshop.
