Domaine du Tariquet, Côte de Gascogne (Gascony, France) Chenin – Chardonnay 2010

($9, Robert Kacher Selections):  Domaine des Salices, another François Lurton estate, makes a lovely array of wines from the Languedoc region in the southwest of France.  Taking advantage of the looser regulations of the Vin de Pays designation (as opposed to the stricter appellation controllée rules), they sell the wines using varietal names.  This Viognier captures all of the engaging subtle honeysuckle aspects of the grape without being heavy and alcoholic.  Not overdone, this lively wine is a good choice for celebrating the Year of the Dragon. 87  Jan 24, 2012