Joseph Mellot Destinea Vin du Pay du Val de Loire Sauvignon Blanc, 2008

I have in the past enjoyed Joseph Mellot's Sancerre wines, and this lower level Vin de Pays Sauvignon is made in a similar understated style. Five years after the vintage date, it is still a light color. Aromas are fresh and pretty--gooseberries, lime and green leaves. None of jalopenas or green bell peppers that you often get in New Zealand Sauvignons. In the mouth, it's as refreshing as a Sauvignon Blanc is meant to be. For $10 to $12 a bottle, you get a taste of the Loire Valley terroir.