On the pour: white Graves

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This month in our London Shop’s wine-tasting machines we’re shining a light on Bordeaux. While you’ll find a host of reds, we’re championing one of the region’s superb and undervalued whites


2016 Château Langlet Blanc, Graves

What is it? We love Claret as much as any other dedicated oenophile, but Bordeaux’s whites spend far too much time in the shadow of its reds. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, they often offer brilliant value – like this one from Château Langlet in the Graves.

Why’s it different? While most of the region’s whites are a blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, this – like the rather more famous Pavillon Blanc – is pure Sauvignon, sourced from a single 0.6-hectare vineyard. There’s some new oak – 20% – which adds weight and complexity to this rich yet fresh wine. The fruit is deliciously exotic, almost tropical, but with a lovely line of acidity keeping it in check.

What should I eat with it? Delicious enough to drink solo, this would be ideal alongside white or shellfish – a platter of fruits de mer, perhaps, if you’re feeling fancy.

How much? £1 for a taste, £16.95 for a bottle

Drop into our London Shop at 63 Pall Mall to taste it for yourself. (You can also find the 2018 vintage on our website.)