2021 Chateau de Beaucastel Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape

In contrast, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes (100% Roussanne) is brought up in all new oak, and it has a normal pH of 3.7 and an alcohol of 14.5%. (In comparison, the classic white has a pH of 3.6 and slightly less alcohol at 14%.) Rich, full-bodied, and opulent, it has a gorgeous perfume of caramelized white peach, acacia flowers, toasted spices, and orange blossom. One of the most powerful, concentrated whites in the vintage, its oak is perfectly integrated, it's flawlessly balanced, and as I've written in the past, it's the Montrachet of the Southern Rhône!

Floral pear notes on the nose, an attractive and lively aromatic display. It has the characteristic generosity on the palate of this cuvée, but with slightly higher acidity than a typical vintage, and a beautifully fresh finish. Harmonious, appealing and enticing, and a touch of spice adds complexity. From a single parcel of Roussanne, planted in 1919 and grown biodynamically. Aged in one-year-old demi-muids and barriques. Maximum of 6,000 bottles per year.

Caramel and honey notes add an extra layer of richness to the ripe pineapple and melon fruit in the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes. Full-bodied and rich without seeming heavy, with a wonderfully long, silky finish, it should provide exceptional drinking for at least another 15 years.

Cropped at a tiny 12 – 18 hL/Ha, the 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes is at eye level with the 2020. It displays magnificent aromas of honeysuckle, yellow apple, ripe pear, grapefruit, lemon flesh, cedar and hints of herbal tea so typical of the Roussanne variety. Full-bodied, layered and kept in check by lively acidity, it concludes with a round and persistent finish. Only 4,000 bottles produced.

Lemon curd, piercing mineral freshness – wet hay, meadowsweet and conference pear. The palate has an overarching richness, suppleness and undercurrent of spicy cedar oak. Always balanced by a sense of zestiness. Yes, this needs time – the honey shines through towards the finish – super-concentrated style – fantastic. (AC)