2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc

The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc was aged almost totally in tank except for two small barrels of Roussanne. It is a superb, full-bodied, dry white that was not put through malolactic, and therefore reveals very good acidity. A gorgeous perfume of honeysuckle, rose petals, currants, and white peaches is followed by a wine with beautiful texture, freshness, and purity. Enjoy this superb dry white over the next 4-5 years, although I tend to underestimate the aging ability of these whites. This brilliant estate in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape is admirably run by Sophie and Catherine Armenier. They continue to fine tune the wines produced at this biodynamically farmed vineyard, and their white Chateauneuf du Pape is now one of the three or four finest of the appellation. Sadly, they only make about 4,000 bottles of this blend of 66% Roussanne and 34% Bourboulenc. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565