Saturday Search Party: Loire Valley White Out
From the Loire to the Santa Maria Valley — bright whites and a brooding red worth the search.
This week’s search party heads down two very different paths. First, a flight of crisp, aromatic whites from France’s Loire Valley—each one buzzing with springtime energy. Three distinct bottles from three different appellations. Then we take a bold detour west to California, where a Cabernet Franc from Santa Maria brings smoky depth and red fruit finesse to the lineup. Let’s dive in.
🍒 Foxen Tinaquaic Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2022 ($59)
This Santa Maria stunner opens with dried flowers and smoky cherry on the nose, then unfolds into layers of licorice, dried herbs and savory depth. Medium-bodied but packed with nuance, its smoky red fruit lingers like a long hug. A beautifully unique take on Cab Franc—equal parts finesse and edge.
🍷 Passerelles Saumur Cabernet Franc 2022 ($35)
Earthy and elegant, this Loire red opens with a dusty nose layered in wet leaves, cracked black pepper, white pepper and dried violets. On the palate, sweet cherry flavors rise to meet the savory spice, creating a beautifully rustic, balanced expression of Saumur Cab Franc.
🍐 Passerelles Anjou Chenin Blanc 2023 ($25)
Highly aromatic, this Chenin delivers juicy pear and yellow apple notes up front, then swirls into a rich, honeyed finish that lingers like the golden hour sun. A white with depth and grace—perfect with goat cheese or a quiet afternoon.
🍊 Passerelles Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($40)
Crisp green apple meets zesty orange and lime, with a backbone of flinty minerality that screams “classic Sancerre.” It’s sharp, clean and serious—but still knows how to have a good time.
🌿 Passerelles Touraine Oisly Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($30)
Spring in a glass: pink grapefruit aromatics, grassy freshness and a juicy citrus blast of lime and orange zest. It’s lively, expressive and ready for anything from grilled fish to solo sipping on the patio.
That’s it for this week’s finds—whether you’re chasing crisp whites or digging into soulful reds, there’s always something worth uncorking. See you next Saturday, where the search party continues.