We are big fans of Bourgogone blanc in its old-country form since it pairs so nicely with food, and this one was a real beauty. Spotted it on the wine list of Bistro Elan, one of the best restaurants in Palo Alto (in case you are in the California Ave. vicinity), and decided it would pair well with our meal. Not only did it complement the meal (Florida red grouper chowder, California bass with wild mushroom pancake and saffron beurre blanc), it significantly enhanced it by bringing out several underlying flavors that were hiding just beneath the surface. The rich flavor of the wine's lemon fruit and toasted oak notes worked wonders -- highly recommended and a good price point ($50-60) for an upscale restaurant's wine list.
Region: Burgundy, France
Grape: Chardonnay
Food-friendly? Absolutely, Bourgogone blanc sings best with food, particularly French (or Cal-french) cuisine.
Swirl by the fire? It can easily hold its own without accompaniment, but will serve better as a lighter aperitif than a full-blown alcohol and oak bomb like a typical California chardonnay.
