Le Lesc Blanc 2024

Colombard and Ugni Blanc are grapes of modest reputation you might not have heard of, but they work brilliantly together in this crisp, unfussy white from Gascony. Made by the Plaimont co-operative - long respected for turning out well-made wines - this is light, dry and full of zesty citrus and orchard fruit, with a clean, palate-waking finish. It's long been one of our first picks when we want something refreshing to wind down with. Not a showy wine, but a clever one - bright, balanced, and just the thing for a fridge-door regular.

Good for winding down with on its own, but also works a treat with goat's cheese - fresh enough to slice through the richness.

The Le Lesc range is made by Producteurs Plaimont, the leading wine cooperative in Southwest France who can be fairly said to have revolutionized the region's wine industry since its formation in the 1970s. Led by André Dubosc, the cooperative consolidated three smaller ones, in the process transforming everything from winemaking standards and grape cultivation to the marketing of their products. Based in Saint Mont, their vast vineyards span diverse terrains, producing a wide range of wines, from casual Côtes de Gascogne to prestigious appellation wines. With over 1,000 members and 5,300 hectares of vines, they are a dominant force in the region.