2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

The terrific white Chateauneuf du Pape is somewhat different in that it goes through 100% malolactic fermentation, and is a blend of two-thirds Roussanne and one-third Bourboulenc. The 2005, given the crisper acids of that vintage, has turned out fabulously well. One-third of this is aged in small barrels, and the other two-thirds in stainless steel. The wine offers terrific rose petal and honeysuckle notes in the nose along with some tropical fruit and apricot as well as peach jam. It is full-bodied, has zesty acidity, and wonderful freshness and presence. This is seriously stuffed white Chateauneuf du Pape that should age nicely for 4-5 years. As I have written in the past, for well over a decade this has been a totally bio-dynamically farmed estate. One of my favorite estates and reference points for Chateauneuf du Pape is that of Sophie and Catherine Armenier. Chateauneuf du Pape, which has made such an extraordinary qualitative renaissance over the last ten to fifteen years, is one of the appellations of France that has an unusual number of women running the show and producing superb wines, and Domaine de Marcoux is certainly one of them. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565