2019 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

JD95 While the old-vine Roussanne cuvée from this estate gets all the attention from collectors, don’t make the mistake of discounting their classic Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc. The 2019 reveals a lighter gold hue as well as a beautiful and classic bouquet of honeyed citrus, quince, white flowers, bee’s wax, and a touch of flinty minerality. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it has flawless balance, nicely integrated acidity, and a great, minerally finish. You can enjoy bottles today with a decant or cellar for two to three decades, if you’re so inclined.
WA92 The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache Blanc and 5% other mixed varieties (Bourboulenc, Clairette, Picardan). Fermented and aged in a mix of barrels (30%) and tanks (70%), it offers up appealing flinty notes on the nose, accompanied by ripe pineapple and pear scents. It’s medium to full-bodied on the palate, round, ripe and generous, with an expansive feel in the mouth and hints of warmth, honey and spice on the long finish. Lush and luxurious, it’s drinkable young, but has a track record of aging well for as long as a decade depending on your preferences.