Texier, Eric 2019 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc VV

2019 Chateauneuf-du-Pape VV - From old vines of Bourboulenc and Clairette on galets roulés in "Bois Sénéchaux," facing north. Flashing a medium gold hue, the nose offers fabulously complex aromas of quince, cantaloupe, orange marmalade and orange blossom, with almond, citrus, dried flowers and chamomille, lifted by a slightly oxidative character. The palate is full bodied with concentration from the old vines, showing ripe pear and yellow fruits with meyer lemon, almond and intense saline minerals, finishing with firm acidity and fabulous length. A true winter weight Rhone white meant for heartier dishes and colder climes. -GH/DL

"2019 Chateauneuf blanc: very hot and ripe year, similar to 2017. Even the bourboulenc was very ripe. We did some oxidation on the must before fermentation to avoid too much oxidative notes in the finish wine. In the end like for any super ripe vintage, we do have a touch of oxidation (should please the Jura kids...), but the wine has a great potential for imaginative pairings with food. Really amazing with marinated poultry (acidic marinade - lime, lemon... based). For drinking now, unlike 2018 or 2020 that will need years, imo.." -Eric Texier