Clos Des Papes (Paul-Vincent Avril) Chateauneuf-Du-Pape Blanc 2021

Clos des Papes (Paul Avril) Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2021 is a brilliantly crafted, age-worthy white wine from one of the Southern Rhône's most legendary estates. Meticulously blended from equal parts of all six permitted white varieties—Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Picpoul, and Picardan—this wine is co-fermented in stainless steel with malolactic fermentation blocked to preserve its incredible freshness and tension. In the glass, it reveals a pale, brilliant lemon hue. The aromatic bouquet is elegant and complex, opening with alluring notes of white peach, Anjou pear, and crushed stone, layered with nuances of pink grapefruit, anise, and white spring flowers. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, remarkably focused, and impeccably balanced, delivering a layered, creamy core of orchard fruit offset by a crisp, vibrant acidity and a striking saline minerality. The finish is remarkably pure, precise, and gracefully long, promising beautiful evolution in the cellar for over a decade.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with pan-seared sea scallops, buttery lobster tail, roasted poultry in creamy herb sauces, and delicate, fresh goat cheeses.

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

A more classic, age-worthy vintage for Clos des Papes's white wine, the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc features compelling aromas of crushed stone, pink grapefruit and lime. Medium-bodied, fresh and focused, it's a relatively lean example that should easily age into the next decade, seeming to add richness along the way.

92 Points - James Suckling

A focused and aromatic nose of citron, grapefruit, bay leaves, toasted bread and white pepper. Medium body with a creamy core of apricots and stone fruit on the palate. Round and caressing with a silky, fruity and floral finish. Drink or hold.