The 2005 Savennieres is pronouncedly mineral even in its aromas, suggesting oyster shell and sea breeze, along with quince, lime, and buddleia. Palpably thick yet bright on the palate, it is like a mineral soup of some sort, yet with tart, purple plum and huckleberry fruit, and clings in a manner that leads you to imagine you’ll end up scraping some crystalline residue from your teeth. This should be fascinating to follow for the next 2-3 years, and the way it behaves, it seems as though it should be a healthful tonic as well! As I reported in issue 172, I found the 2005s from Chateau d’Epire quite embryonic and closed-in early on, but they remain on the market and are now more accessible.Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524