Loin de L'oeil (or Len de l'El) is a variety indigenous to the Gaillac region, whilst Mauzac is also peculiar to the region (as well as an important component of Blanquette de Limoux). Sauvignon is, of course, an interloper from further north, but makes a useful addition to the blend, in terms of herbaceous aromas and flavours. This wine is ultra-pale gold colour with an even paler rim. The nose has delicate aromas of lemon, nettle and freshly-cut grass, with floral nuances and background notes of honey and peach. The palate is fresh and zesty, offering flavours of lemon and gooseberry, with herby notes adding further interest. Whilst essentially light in body, it is a wine of some depth and the finish is deceptively long and persistent. It isn't complex, but it is hugely enjoyable and refreshing, and really does grow in the glass (and actually tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge). Lovely stuff, at a decent price. Sealed under DIAM cork.

Pacharenc du Vic Bilh is the main white wine in a region probably better know for its red Madiran wines. But if you've never heard of it, don't let that put you off. South-West France still harbours a few relatively unknown, yet high-quality wine appellations, which are capable of producing some really amazing wines - and this is one of them. It is a medium straw/gold coloured wine, with pale green glints. Stone/slate aromas mingle with citrus fruits, pea pod and nettle and very subtle, smoky oak nuances. It is herbaceous and minerally - for those unfamiliar with the local grape varieties, this is sort of half way between Chenin and Sauvignon, but with a style all of its own. Almost bone dry, and the acidity is quite shocking in its intensity - a wine to really make the mouth water! There is a lot going on here, with zesty lime, lemon and tart apple flavours, but with a hint of savoury richness and a backbone of stone/slate minerality. The length is considerable. This is not a wine for the faint-hearted, but for those with a spirit of adventure, this could be just the ticket - far from being "rustic" (I hate that word) this is a mouth-watering, complex, lovely wine, and I highly recommend it.

A deep-ish purple core with a small ruby rim. Oodles of black and red fruit aromas, allied to notes of cedar, tobacco and spice. The palate is wonderfully open and expressive - flavours of black and red cherry, blackcurrant and spices, with a sweet/sour and agnostura bitters finish. The zesty acidity and ripe tannins make for a gloriously balanced and drinkable wine. Indeed, the fruit is so richly-textured and vibrant that this is very food-friendly and quite delicious even without food. A cracking wine.