Summer’s upon us, and it is always a good idea to prepare your repertoire of summer sippers. One of the best places to do that is the Loire Valley.When I tasted this duo of 2011s from Domaine Joseph Mellot, their brightness, freshness and lean raciness airlifted me above his Chateau and vineyards as if I were in a hot air balloon… sounds corny, I know, but wine tends to take me places.

The Mellot winery was founded in Sancerre almost five centuries ago by Pierre-Etienne Mellot and has stayed in the family ever since. Quickly growing in esteem in the region, by 1698 César Mellot was entrusted with the weighty task of advising King Louis XIV on his choice of wines! Throughout the years, each new generation has continued to enrich and perfect the family’s winemaking skills.

The family’s properties now include a restaurant in Sancerre, Auberge Joseph Mellot, as well as wine bars in Paris and Sancerre. The restaurant opened in 1882 in the heart of Sancerre, and since then has welcomed many famous personalities, including the impressionist painter Claude Monet.

Today, Joseph Mellot is the only estate that owns vineyards in all the appellations of the region. The vineyard area now extends over 85 hectares: 30 in Sancerre, 24 in Pouilly-Fumé, 14 in Quincy, 11 in Reuilly, 2 in the Coteaux du Giennois and 4 in Menetou-Salon. The family’s passion for excellence and dedication to wine of the Loire is palpable.

The Mellot name has gained and sustained a high reputation for five centuries, a feat that speaks volumes to the quality of their wine which is why I made these two selections the Frank’s CLUBVino choices for June…

Joseph Mellot 2011 Sincérité Sauvignon Blanc
100% Sauvignon Blanc sourced from a variety of the Joseph Mellot vineyards across their vineyards. This “Baby Sancerre” displays an attractive aromatic nose combining floral notes with bright citrus. Full and expressive on the palate with a clean and crisp finish of fresh minerality. An extremely appealing wine that’s great with summer salad and flaky white fish or perfect as an aperitif on the patio!

Joseph Mellot 2011 Sincérité Pinot Noir Rosé
This wine’s clear and luminous salmon pink hue is typical of Pinot Noir rosés. This 100% Pinot Noir starts off with floral notes and opens up to aromas of blackcurrant buds. Round on the palate with freshness and good length this delightfully dry wine stands out for its freshness and aromatic finesse. Very refreshing and a little too easy to drink!  It’ll go well with charcuteries, white meats on the grill and spicy Asian cuisine. Love it!