The featured wines of the week are two delicious Loire Valley wines by the Cave de Saumur and the Cave des Vins de Bourgueil (bohr-gohy). The Cave des Vignerons de Saumur was established in 1957 by a group of winegrowers who wanted to combine their experience and expertise as well as solve the economic difficulties. The Cave des Vins de Bourgueil is a similar and more recently created cooperative of winemakers and vineyards.

The white from Saumur is a clean, crisp, and minerally wine with notes of pear and apple. This complex Chenin Blanc is sourced from 45 year old vines. It is very well balanced and would pair well with lean white fish dishes, veggie dishes, shellfish, and at $11.99 is at a great price for everyday sipping. The Bourgueil is 100% Cabernet Franc and absolutely gorgeous. I poured this wine blind for a few friends and asked them how much they would spend on it and they said $25-$35 happily on this great wine. They were shocked and excited when they learned that it is only $10.99! This Cabernet Franc is nuanced with herbal spices and dark cherry. It is soft but has nice acidity and a good amount of tannins to give the wine structure. It is very versatile would pair well with summer squash or green bean dishes, pork, and steak.

Both of these wines are outstanding for the money and a must try!