Review: Chateau Bonnet Entre-Deux-Mers 2006

French for “Between Two Seas,” the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux lies between the Dardogne and the Garonne rivers just south of St. Emilion and east of the city of Bordeaux. Although the label represents a grand chateaux, much of the Entre-Deux-Mers region is comprised of rolling countryside and farmland. By law, the Entre-Deux-Mers appellation is strictly for the production of white wines. Like many Bordeaux whites, this wine represents a blend of several varietals; in this case, 50% sauvignon blanc, 40% semillon, and 10% muscadelle. It pours a clear yellow/green color with a hint of copper at the rim. On the nose, there isn’t a huge amount going on, however the notes of gooseberry, hay, floral tones and lime zest present a decent offering. The palate, however, leaves more to be desired. This is a fairly fat wine (most likely attributed to the 40% semillion) that doesn’t go too far. The acidity is there, but it is almost drowned by the breadth of the oak and vanilla. Ultimately, the wine gives away the crispness and freshness of the varietals in favor of a rich fatness that sits on the palate until it falls away without giving much enjoyment on the tongue. However, this is still an entirely drinkable, albeit simple, white wine. And for $9.99 a bottle, it is also a far better value than many wines at its price point. Try it with roasted poultry, game-foul, and fattier fish such as salmon or tuna.

Overall rating: 74