Chollet 2025 Pouilly-Fume, Loire Valley

With a mania for Sancerre depleting our tried-and-true producers, importers are grabbing everything they can to meet the fevered demand, bringing us wines that, shall we say, aren’t up for any awards.  Right across the river is Pouilly-sur-Loire where Sauvignon Blanc is also grown, perhaps with a little flintier character, but possessing a lot of the verve of their popular neighbor.  Remember, it was a Pouilly-Fumé that Julia Child was drinking the night she decided she wanted to learn how to cook.  The brother-sister Chollets have created a fabulous Sauvignon here with a gorgeous aroma, delicious fruit all throughout, bracing acidity and a moderately steely finish.  As Sancerres are crossing the $40 mark, you can be taking this home for less than $30.