Laurus Cotes du Rhone Blanc

[Innkeeper]

2001 Laurus, Cotes Du Rhone Blanc ($9.99 Belfast Coop). This one is a blend of roussanne and viognier. The roussanne is aged in new oak for six months. The viognier is not. Then they are blended and bottled. The roussanne must be the minority blendee, because there is only a trace of the oak. They don't give percentages.

The wine gives you apricots and quinces (my favorite jelly) on the nose and upfront. Nice complexity with that hint of oak across the palate, and a lovely finish. Matched very well with smoked chicken, peas, and the main course; our first farmer's market fresh batter fried eggplant of the season. Fantastic. Could have posted this one under Best Buys, as it is a terrific value.