2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

Starting with the whites, and always one of the top releases in any vintage, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a blend of 38% Roussanne, 28% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette and the balance Bourboulenc that’s aged close to 70% in tank (on lees) and 30% in 2-3 year old barrels. Gorgeous all around, with notions of white currants, buttered citrus and tinges of honey and flowers, it is medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, yet never loses focus or purity and has vibrant acidity. While superb now (and as always, I recommend drinking the whites within a couple years of the vintage), this cuvee can certainly age and evolve gracefully. Drink now-2017. One of the larger estates in Chateauneuf du Pape, covering over 200 acres, all of which are in the southeastern portion located around the estate, Chateau La Nerthe is owned by the Richard Family, with Christian Voeux making the wines since 2008. While the winemaking here falls firmly in the modern camp, with a plenty of small barrels utilized (and some new), the wines never seem overly oaked and always hold on to classic Southern Rhone flare. Importer: Pasternak Wine Imports, Harrison, NY; tel. (800) 946-3110