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.