The 2008 Chaleur Estate Blanc is a barrel-fermented and aged blend of 62% Sauvignon Blanc and 38% Semillon sourced from 4 of eastern Washington’s finest terroirs. Medium gold-colored, it reveals an outstanding perfume of mineral, grilled brioche, citrus, gooseberry, honey, and fig. Creamy-textured, round, and already complex with all components nicely integrated, it should drink nicely for at least 5-6 years. www.delillecellars.com

DeLille’s take on a first-growth Bordeaux Blanc really shines in this excellent vintage. Toasty and firm, it captures the lushness of the Semillon fruit while mixing in bright citrus. The barrel aging adds warm brioche, toasted almond and caramel. There is just a tiny suggestion of honey in the finish, a rush of tropical fruits.——P.G.(8/1/2010)—— 94