On my third trip to France, in 2009, I enjoyed a day spent driving in a convertible Citroen with a winemaker in Chablis, who toured me through the terroir and educated me in tasting some of the best white wines in the world. As far as the U.S. is concerned, Chablis brings back memories of jug wine. But that is simply not the case; Chablis is sophisticated and elegant, with perfect acidity and grape-forward loveliness in taste. So, while on a Holland America Line ms Westerdam cruise, I dined at the Pinnacle Grill, where the sommelier offered two choices: I chose Laroche Chablis 2011, and I was not disappointed.

The bright gold color gave way to intense notes of almond and white blossom, and paired perfectly with Alaskan salmon.With every sip, I was sent back to Chablis, a trip that began and ended in Paris, where I am now living for the next year, and where I plan to sip my way through every wine region possible. 

Sante!