An outstanding white, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc (a blend of Clairette, Grenache Blanc and Bourboulenc aged in demi-muid) offers notes of poached pears, apple and salty minerality to go with a rich, medium-bodied profile on the palate. Possessing crisp acidity, solid depth and good overall richness, it will be versatile on the dinner table and a great food wine. Drink now-2017.
An estate that seems to have found another level, quality-wise, Domaine du Bosquet des Papes has been run by the Boiron family for the past six generations. Located in the northern part of the appellation, the wines are now made by the talented Nicolas Boiron and offer classic, Provencal characters that scream Southern Rhone, yet also show beautiful polish and poise. His 2010s were the best wines I’ve tasted from the estate, and these 2011s and 2012s are not far behind. They are all noteworthy and worth tracking down.
Importer: Alain Junguenet, Wines of France, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173