2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Clos de Beauvenir

The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos de Beauvenir is made from certified organic grapes and aged for 7 months in a combination of 85% demi-muids and 15% new oak barriques. It bursts with aromas of honeysuckle, jasmine, lemon peel, white peach, pineapple, melon, pastry, cedar and freshly-cut fennel. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, vibrant and shows a lively core of fresh acidity. This 2021 white concludes with a bright finish and a modestly salty aftertaste.

The 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Clos De Beauvenir Blanc is also incredible and, in this critic's opinion, a perfect wine. Coming from a single vineyard just beside the estate and based largely on Roussanne, it has a slightly deeper gold hue as well as Montrachet-like richness in its notes of white currants, flower oil, pineapple, honeyed toast, and crushed stone. Rich, powerful, and concentrated on the palate, it nevertheless stays vibrant, fresh, and pure, with a gorgeous finish that just keeps going. It's pure brilliance in Southern Rhône whites. I love it today with some air, but it should drink brilliantly for 7-8 years, then possibly go through a dormant stage, only to re-emerge at a later date. It's unquestionably one of the finest whites from the region. Hats off to the team at La Nerthe for this incredible effort. While 2021 is a good to great vintage for the whites of the Southern Rhône, I was blown away by the quality from Château La Nerthe. These are easily the finest whites I’ve tasted from this estate, and readers should jump on these wines. While no 2021 reds were presented, the 2020s showed beautifully and illustrated the classic, balanced, elegant style of the vintage.

70% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc. Vinified in demi-muids (70%) and stainless-steel tanks (30%). Matured in demi-muids (85%) and new barriques (15%) for seven months. Tasted blind. Pear and apple with white peach skin on the nose. A ripe fruit-led palate, pineapple, peach and oaky creaminess. The oak is present and adds a toasty note to the finish but will integrate over the coming years as there is sufficient fruit and intensity. (AC)