The Chateau De Breze lies just outside the town of Saumur and holds quite the historical significance.  Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site, but the wines were also so highly regarded in the 15th century that royals exchanged them annually with the Sauternes of the famed Chateau d’Yquem.  In 2009 they had a resurgence once again, when organic farming practices were restored to the vineyards and hand-harvesting and quality vinification practices were brought back to the wines.

This Saumur Blanc is 100% Chenin Blanc coming from vineyards at a slightly higher elevation and cooler climate of the Breze hill.  The wine is fermented in 50% stainless steel, and 50% in neutral oak, preserving that fresh acidity while rounding out the finish.  The nose and palate have both a floral and fruity note; honey, dried fruit, and Meyer lemon.  The finish was dry and crisp with a mouthwatering acidity.

I can’t say it was a perfect or even planned pairing but I had to share the strawberry and rhubarb crostata that I made for dessert (I subbed strawberries for raspberries) as we drank this wine.  That Ina….she sure knows her way around a dessert!