2009 Domaine La Hitaire, “Hors Saison”, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillion, France

I can’t believe I never put this wine into the club selections. At $12 a bottle, it won’t tax the wine budget. This is a great all-around white—great with food or to drink with your friends. I love this blend with Mexican food, as well as traditional Provence-style food. A very versatile wine.

Kacher writes: "La Hitaire estate was purchased by Yves Grassa over 20 years ago. At this time Yves planted Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon to the existing classic Gascony varietals. Today it is owned and worked by his two sons, Rémy and Armin, who are in their early thirties. The property lies about 10 miles from Domaine de Pouy. The vinification techniques used here were learned at Domaine de Pouy. All the grapes are picked in the early morning and the picking bins are lined with dry ice to keep the fruit cold and protect against oxidation. The fruit is them macerated cold between 6-10 hours to extract flavors from the skins. All of the wines here are made completely in stainless steel tank. These extra details insure the awesome quality that we have all come to expect from the Grassa family. 'Hors Saison' is a blend made from 20+ year old Sauvignon Blanc 85% and Semillon 15% and displays high toned fruit in the nose and mouth with a round mouth-feel and long finish."