2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

Always terrific, the base 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is a blend of mostly Grenache Blanc, with some Roussanne and a splash of Clairette 8% raised in Barrel and stainless steel. Ripe stone fruits, brioche, honeysuckle, and spicey notes all define this medium-bodied richer, textured, balanced white that will shine on the dinner table. Located in the center of the Chateauneuf du Pape appellation, just south of Rayas, Château de Vaudieu is run by Laurent Bréchet, and they release a number of special cuvées based largely on individual parcels around the domaine. The winemaking can be thought of as quasi-modern, with most of the wines destemmed and brought up in older barrels and demi-muids. New oak is kept to a minimum and the wines always show Provençal, elegant characters. In addition to the brilliant reds, this estate fashions some of the greatest whites in the appellation.