2009 Domaine Saint Nicolas "Les Clous" Fiefs Vendeéns Blanc (Previously $17)

90 points Wine Spectator: "Lovely powdered ginger and cardamom notes lead the way, followed by salted butter, blanched almond and nectarine flavors. The long, stylish finish has nice latent minerality. Very fine. Drink now through 2011. 200 cases imported." (09/10) 90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Grown largely on distinctively pink and quartzite-laced schist, Michin's Chenin-based 2009 Fiefs Vendeens Les Clous incorporates 15% Chardonnay and 5% of the rare, indigenous Grollot (also spelled 'Groslot' or more commonly 'Grolleau') Gris. Apricot, quince, and diverse fruit blossoms hauntingly scent the nose and waft across a delicate, polished, subtly saline palate. Shrimp shell and lobster reduction lend saliva-inducing savor to the long finish of a striking wine for which you will find many uses at table. I have no experience with the maturation of this outstanding value, but given its quality and raw materials I suspect one need have no worry about following it for at least 4-5 years - though whether some of its charm will diminish (or perhaps be enhanced) I can't say." (08/10) While the critics may not be able to agree on this wine's cepage (it's actually a blend of 90% Chenin and 10% Grolleau, according to the importer), they can agree that this wine is scrumptious. From vines with an average age of 15 to 25 years, all farmed biodynamically, we were lucky enough to bring this in ourselves so we could bring it to you at this incredible price!