Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2009

"Clos des Papes is widely recognized for its red cuvée (its 2005 earned Wine of the Year in 2007), but this estate also produces one of the appellation's best whites. From the Southern Rhône's excellent 2009 vintage, this wine blends equal parts Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Picpoul and Bourboulenc. To retain freshness, Vincent Avril fermented the wine in stainless steel tanks and avoided malolactic conversion. This white will benefit from a few years in the cellar. "

95 Points

Wine Spectator

"The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc may be the finest white wine I have ever tasted from Clos des Papes. An equal part blend of every authorized varietal in Chateauneuf du Pape (six different grapes), it exhibits terrific fruit intensity, lots of quince, anise, nectarine and white peach notes, a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity, a hint of honeysuckle and a layered, long finish. This stunning white Chateauneuf du Pape should drink nicely for 3-4 years, possibly longer. The malolactic is always blocked in this cuvee, and the wines have an uncanny ability to age for ten or more years in many vintages. "

94 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Vivid yellow. Intense aromas and flavors of candied citrus fruits, quince and honey, with a floral topnote. Juicy and precise, with very good energy to its orange, orchard fruit and chamomile flavors. Closes with impressive thrust and floral character. This wine ages extremely well, by the way. I have recently drunk some older bottles that were all in fantastic shape. The 2004 shows impressive depth and a waxy, honeyed character, with bitter pear skin and citrus pith flavors and a velvety texture. And the 2001 is a rich, velvety wine that offers deep poached pear, honey and spice aromas and flavors, and excellent finishing bite and length."

92 Points

International Wine Cellar