2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Saouma Magis

Very bright, with a piercing lemon chiffon note followed by shortbread, white peach and verbena accents. The long finish has a bright stony edge and a light talc hint that lingers while the fruit plays out. Remarkably youthful and thoroughly distinctive. Drink now through 2025.

A smoking effort that will stand toe to toe with a top flight white Burgundy, the 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc Magis has tons of matchstick and flinty minerality to go with vibrant white fruits, white flowers, toast and citrus. Deep, rich, medium to full-bodied and concentrated with racy acidity, this blend of 75% Grenache Blanc and the rest Clairette, Bourboulenc, and Roussanne will benefit from short term cellaring and have 15 or more years of longevity.