2014 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Roussanne V V

(aged in a 50/50 blend of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels for eight months): Pale yellow-gold. Explosive, mineral-accented aromas of tangerine, poached pear and jasmine show superb clarity and pick up ginger, nougat and chamomile nuances as the wine opens up. Juicy, densely packed citrus and orchard fruit flavors thoroughly stain the palate and become more energetic with air. The mineral and floral notes come back emphatically on the strikingly long and incisive finish, which shows impressive, nervy tenacity and focus.

A big step up over the classic cuvee (which isn’t always a given), the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes is 100% Roussanne from ancient vines, some of which are over 100 years in age. A deeper, richer version of the traditional cuvee, it reveals a medium-gold color to go with sensational notes of white currants, quince, brioche, honeysuckle and lemon curd. Full-bodied, beautifully concentrated and rich, yet with plenty of acidity, drink this elegant, balanced beauty anytime over the coming 2-3 decades.