2022 Le Vieux Donjon Blanc, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The attractive nose of apricot and orange blossom pulls you into this ripe and substantial, yet lively and delicate, white Chateauneuf. I love the mouthfeel of this graceful wine and the way the fine tannins support the long finish. A cuvee of 50% clairette and 50% roussanne, which were co-fermented and matured in tank and bottled in February after the vintage to retain freshness. Drink or hold.

A 50-50 blend of Clairette and Roussanne, all made and matured in stainless steel, the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a classic example of Vieux Donjon's white. Scents of tangerine, pineapple and white peach are tinged with just a hint of honeyed richness that somehow enhances rather than compromises the overall sense of freshness. It's medium to full-bodied in the mouth, with a silky texture and ample length... The white wine is a blend of Clairette and Roussanne, made entirely in stainless steel, and grown near the bottom of Cabrières, where the clay is particularly abundant amid the limestone. "It's a good terroir for whites," said François. The Michels report that they are picking their Roussanne earlier than they used to, focusing on retaining freshness. In 2022, the Roussanne was picked on August 22, the Clairette on September 3.