Clos des Papes - Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc 2020 (1.5L)

As one of the estates with a rich history in Châteauneuf du Pape, Clos des Papes has been consistently one of the top performers since its origins in the early 18th century. There is a sign on an ancient wall of the Château citing the Avril family as the first treasurers in Châteauneuf in 1710. Who owns the house with the address #1 in the town? The Avril’s.

Vincent took over for his father Paul in 1988 after graduating from oenology school in Beaune. Vincent has the Rhône in his mind, and Burgundy in his heart. This may explain the overarching elegance in all of his wines.

Citrusy and grapefruit-led thanks to the Bourboulenc. Touch of anise, touch of fennel, lovely acidity and freshness, with a gentle saline line. Generous but only just full-bodied, this shows liveliness and more depth than many white Châteauneufs this year. Long finish. No malolactic and no oak use. (Drink between 2022-2042)

From a great vintage for the whites (as well as the reds), the 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc offers a classic, vibrant, medium-bodied style as well as lots of citrus and white grapefruit, a distinct, rocky, mineral character, good acidity, terrific overall balance, and a great finish. Give it a year and enjoy over the following two decades or more.

Super fresh style, with fennel, lime, kiwi, white peach and honeysuckle notes all breezing through in unison and carried by lacy acidity through a well-detailed finish. This is approachable now for its brightness, but has the inner purity and sneaky length to age nicely as well. Drink now through 2032. 1,000 cases made, 50 cases imported.