Château d’Epiré, Savennières (Loire Valley, France) “Cuvée Especiale” 2007

($28, Kermit Lynch): Château d’Epiré is one the leading properties in Savennières, a tiny (300-acre) appellation just west of Angers that produces the world’s best dry Chenin Blanc.  This ‘Cuvée Especiale’ is bottled without filtration exclusively for Kermit Lynch.  The wine, always reticent when young, is vigorous and bright.  It carries the hallmark combination of honey-like richness (but definitely not sweetness) and earthy minerality of Savennières.  I would give it a couple of years to soften and develop even more complexity.  You will not be disappointed with this unique wine. 90 Michael Apstein Nov 11, 2008