2021 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc [JD96-98][D96][JS95][WA93-95]

Producer: Chateau de Beaucastel 
Region: Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France 
Blend: 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache blanc, 5% Bourboulenc, Clairette, Picpoul, Picardin 
Year: 2021 

Jeb Dunnuck, 96-98 Points 

"Mostly Roussanne bought up in equal parts once- and twice-used barrels, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is a thrilling white that, quite frankly, seems to be almost as good as the Roussanne Vieilles Vignes release at this stage. Exotic honeyed flowers, citrus, orange blossom, white peach, and chalky minerality all define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a seamless, layered mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and a great, great finish." 

Decanter, 96 Points 

"Honeycomb oak on the nose, then quite a broad and generous palate. Sappy acidity, although not as high as some white Châteauneufs this year, and a long finish. This has a good sense of lightness, drinkability and balance. The oak is quite forthright for now, so give this some time to come together. 80% Roussanne, 10% Grenache and Clairette, plus 10% of Piquepoul Blanc, Picardan and Bourboulenc. Part of the blend was matured in two- and three-year-old barriques for a year." 

James Suckling, 95 Points 

"All the power and textural complexity that we expect from the whites of this appellation is combined with wonderful lemon freshness and a pronounced salty minerality. A slew of candied citrus, pineapple and dried pear character. Wonderful silkiness at the very long, well-structured finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2025. From organically grown grapes." 

Wine Advocate, 93-95 Points 

"The 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc—roughly 80% Roussanne, with the rest a mix of other permitted white varieties—has turned out well, with slightly floral nuances to the peach and pineapple fruit, plus subtle cinnamon and nutmeg shadings. Full-bodied, silky-textured, concentrated and long, it's a real beauty." 

Alcohol: 14% 

*Discounts do not apply to items like this one in the Fine & Rare category. Price and availability in store may vary.