Even more profound is the blend of 57% Roussanne, 31% Clairette and 12% Grenache Blanc and Bourboulenc, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Clos de Beauvenir. It possesses amazing fruit as well as a wonderful pear, spice, marmalade and floral-scented bouquet, full-bodied, zesty richness, lots of honeysuckle as well as an unctuous texture. This sumptuous dry white should drink well for a decade. One of Chateauneuf du Pape’s classic estates, Chateau La Nerthe’s 225+ acres are all located in the southeastern quadrant of the appellation. A property that can trace its history back to 1560, La Nerthe was also one of the first estate bottlers. It was acquired by the Richard family in 1985, and they immediately turned this once run down estate around. Long-time manager, Alain Dugas, has quietly slipped into retirement, turning the estate over to his assistant, Christian Voeux. La Nerthe’s two white Chateauneuf du Papes are among the classics of the appellation. Importer: Pasternak Wine Imports, Harrison, NY; tel. (800) 946-3110