Little known outside of France, Coteaux du Giennois just received AOP status in 1998 – yet it has been producing wine since the 2nd century, and vineyards here were given as gifts by the French royal court as early the 800s. Alice Berthier’s vineyards are planted on hillsides of the Loire extensions of the geologic formations of Sancerrois and Pouilly – that is to say, the same classic Sauvignon Blanc terroir, without the trappings of international fame. Made from 30-year-old vines, this wine embodies the best of the Loire. Gold in color, the wine has a perfumed yet vibrant nose of pear, white blossom and forest floor with curious cedar hints. Red apple, dried grass and summer field herbs show beautifully on the palate and crescendo into a long finish.