The 2009 Chaleur Estate Blanc, a multi-regional blend of 67% Sauvignon Blanc and 33% Semillon is mildly disappointing in this vintage in comparison to the lofty standards of the past. It offers up a pleasing perfume of fresh herbs, mineral, cut grass, gooseberry, and hazelnuts. Crisp and racy on the palate, it comes off as slightly lean in need of more breadth and concentration. Nevertheless, it is a solid effort that could fill out with 1-2 years of additional bottle age. DeLille Cellars and Doyenne are sister labels, the former for Bordeaux-style wines and the latter for Rhone-style wines. They will be reviewed separately.www.delillecellars.com

5 6 Consistent year after year, this blend of 67% Sauvignon Blanc and 33% Semillon is modeled after top-flight white Bordeaux. Deep gold, toasty and scented with olive oil, walnuts and loam, it hits the palate full-on with a rainbow of flavors: citrus, stone and tropical fruits, all accented with toast, oil and nuts from barrel aging. Riveting, delicious and unique.——P.G.(7/1/2011)—— 95