Is it a coincidence that it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay on #PresidentsDay? I think not 😂 Today, I’m feeling French and opening up some 2017 Vouvray from Barton & Guestier.

Founded in 1725 by Irishman Thomas Barton, Barton & Guestier is the oldest winehouse in Bordeaux. Barton & Guestier wines have been present in the U.S. market since 1785 and were drank by Thomas Jefferson himself. Today, the company provides wines from the main French wine growing regions and from Provence.

Courtesy Barton & Guestier

The Barton & Guestier winemakers work in partnership with about 200 winegrowers over the greatest French wine regions. Barton & Guestier is the only wine merchant to combine the most ancient experience in winemaking in Bordeaux and the latest technologies offered by its different partners.

All the wines are made of grapes grown in specific areas, with a strict control of grape varieties, yields and winemaking methods. Depending on the name, wines are aged in oak barrels or in stainless steel vats. Barton & Guestier winemakers monitor all the steps of the process, including pruning, harvesting, vinification, aging, blending, and bottling.

The Vouvray comes from small plots located on the hillsides and plateau overlooking the Loire, also called “the royal river.” It’s made from 100% Chenin Blanc. It is grown in a clay and limestone base with sandy patches, where Chenin gives its best Oceanic and continental climate.

The wine is pale yellow in color with a strong nose of tropical fruits and white flowers. It tasted like ripe apple, tropical fruit, and yellow cherries with a hint of minerality and grapefruit. It was perfect for lounging around the backyard and enjoying a very long weekend. Cheers!