(92) A distinctive style, with an earthy side. Chalky and full on the palate, with ripe kiwi and mirabelle plum undercut by tangy acidity. Gains freshness from green herb and crushed stone notes, while a bitter almond accent lingers on the finish. Clairette, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. Drink now through 2028.
92. The 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a rather zesty and crisp style with scents of lime and pink grapefruit on the nose. Just medium-bodied, it’s plump and round, showing some lees influence, then clean, refreshing and long, showing excellent intensity and a distinctive character. Tasted twice, with consistent notes..
94 pts. A powerful and bold white Chateauneuf with a lovely freshness. Plenty of melted butter character, but also stacks of floral honey and dried flowers. Beautiful integration of fine tannins and moderate acidity at the long finish. Single vineyard. There’s sandy soil, like at Rayas. A blend of one-third each of grenache blanc, clairette and roussanne. Drink or hold.
I always love this white, and the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc Clos Roquete Blanc is no exception. Pure, clean, and elegant, with medium-bodied aromas and flavors of ripe lemon, honeysuckle, and white flowers, it has a pretty, seamless, impeccably balanced profile and is already impossible to resist. 94 pts.