2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Saouma Magis

Light brilliant yellow. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes mineral-accented pear nectar, orange gelato, iodine and mineral scents, along with a deeper suggestion of honey. Impressively energetic, sharply focused citrus and orchard fruit and floral flavors stain the palate while showing zero fat. A sexy floral nuance emerges steadily as the wine opens up, along with hints of toasted brioche and green almond. Wonderfully concentrated yet nervy; the ridiculously long, focused finish features lingering floral and mineral qualities. This is one of the most impressive bottles of Rhône white wine that I can recall, from the north or the south, and I'd have no qualms about setting it up alongside the best from Burgundy.

Light bright yellow. Vibrant, mineral-accented citrus and orchard fruits, iodine and pungent flowers on the hugely perfumed nose. Sappy, densely packed orange, pear and quinine flavors stain the palate and display a compelling blend of richness and delicacy. This wine shows the mineral verve of a great Chablis and the depth of a Bâtard-Montrachet. Finishes minerally and extremely long, featuring a resonating floral quality and excellent clarity.

(fermented and aged in used demi-muids for two years): Vivid straw. Explosive aromas of pear liqueur, honey, iodine and pungent flowers on the mineral-accented nose. Sappy and incisive on the palate, showing impressive heft and thrust to its ripe citrus, orchard fruit and floral flavors. Closes extremely long, with superb energy and resonating mineral and floral qualities.