Way back in 2000, Jean-Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud, the founders of Valandraud, the pioneers of the Garagiste movement in Saint Emilion (their first vintages were literally made in their garage), planted a small parcel of vines sitting on clay and limestone to Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Sauvignon Gris believing those white grapes would thrive in that particular piece of their unique terroir and make great wine. They did, and Valandraud has been producing two extraordinary whites- the Grand Vin and a second label called Virginie- to go with their highly-coveted reds ever since. A lot rarer than even the prized whites of Graves, we think of the Valandraud Blanc as a super-charged version of white Bordeaux- more exotic, richer on the palate and a joy to drink young as well as with bottle age. The 2018 Virginie, now in our hands, at six years past its harvest, is well-nigh drinking perfectly. About half the wine was aged in new wood and its Semillon component currently drives a nose ripe with sumptuous aromatics that evoke orange blossoms, dried acacia honey, jasmine and citrus. The Sauvignons weigh in with fresh green melon, chopped fennel frond, key lime and spice notes that lead to a full, plush frame that finishes with all the salty mineral one expects from the terroir of one of Saint Emilion’s top Grand Cru vineyards. A totally unique white, we think it will be a wonderful partner for richer fish dishes, coquilles, poultry roasted with herbs and lemon or maybe a rich cow’s milk cheese from Burgundy or a Crottin from the Loire. It’ll also be a great keeper- an additional five to seven years wouldn’t be too long! We have 36 bottles in stock. 3000 bottles (not cases) produced!

Jeb Dunnuck: Based on 50% Sémillon, 40% Sauvignon Blanc, and 10% Sauvignon Gris, the 2018 Château Valandraud Virginie De Valandraud Blanc is another fresh, racy, yet concentrated white from this estate. Honeyed lemon, melon ball, sappy herbs, and floral notes all emerge from the glass, and it's nicely textured, medium-bodied, and beautifully balanced. I don't think it's going to live as long as the Valandraud Blanc, but it should keep nicely for 4-6 years, if you're so inclined. 93 points