France · Rhone · Southern Rhone · Chateauneuf du Pape White · Still · wine-wine · 1108390
Lowest offer: 60.95833333333333333333333333 GBP (Buy)
Offers: 12 · Bids: 0
| Price / case | Vintage | Packing | Qty | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4389.00 HKD | 2016 | 6 x 75cl | 11 | hk / Hong Kong |
| 2250.00 HKD | 2021 | 3 x 75cl | 2 | hk / Hong Kong |
| 459.80 GBP | 2021 | 6 x 75cl | 1 | uk / United Kingdom |
| 365.75 GBP | 2021 | 6 x 75cl | 1 | uk / United Kingdom |
| 365.75 GBP | 2021 | 6 x 75cl | 2 | uk / United Kingdom |
| 8226.24 HKD | 2022 | 12 x 75cl | 1 | hk / Hong Kong |
| 559.60 GBP | 2022 | 6 x 75cl | 1 | uk / United Kingdom |
| 5016.00 HKD | 2022 | 6 x 75cl | 1 | hk / Hong Kong |
| 432.63 EUR | 2022 | 6 x 75cl | 13 | fr_bordeaux / Bordeaux |
| 538.70 GBP | 2023 | 6 x 75cl | 4 | uk / United Kingdom |
| 4984.65 HKD | 2023 | 6 x 75cl | 4 | hk / Hong Kong |
| 4984.65 HKD | 2023 | 6 x 75cl | 9 | hk / Hong Kong |
No active bids.
| Vintage | Packing | Offers | Bids | Market price | WA rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 92 | |
| 1997 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 93 | |
| 1998 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7659.72 | 89 |
| 2001 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7954.32 | 92 |
| 2002 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 92 | |
| 2003 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7718.16 | 92 |
| 2003 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3859.08 | 92 |
| 2004 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8864.76 | 94 |
| 2004 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4432.38 | 94 |
| 2005 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4504.50 | 90 |
| 2006 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4509.00 | 94 |
| 2007 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 12688.08 | 95 |
| 2007 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 6344.04 | 95 |
| 2008 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 92 | |
| 2009 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7628.04 | 96 |
| 2009 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3814.02 | 96 |
| 2010 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 6190.44 | 95 |
| 2010 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3095.22 | 95 |
| 2011 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7207.44 | 94 |
| 2011 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3603.72 | 94 |
| 2012 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8833.80 | 94 |
| 2012 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4416.90 | 94 |
| 2013 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 9988.32 | 93 |
| 2013 | 3 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 2497.08 | 93 |
| 2013 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4994.16 | 93 |
| 2014 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3622.68 | 91 |
| 2015 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 6792.96 | 94 |
| 2015 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3396.48 | 94 |
| 2016 | 1 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 707.60 | 94 |
| 2016 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8491.20 | 94 |
| 2016 | 6 x 75cl | 1 | 0 | 4245.60 | 94 |
| 2017 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 7604.88 | 94 |
| 2017 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 3802.44 | 94 |
| 2018 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8717.16 | 94 |
| 2018 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4358.58 | 94 |
| 2019 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8966.76 | 92 |
| 2019 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4483.38 | 92 |
| 2020 | 12 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 8739.72 | 94 |
| 2020 | 3 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | ||
| 2020 | 6 x 75cl | 0 | 0 | 4369.86 | 94 |
| 2021 | 3 x 75cl | 1 | 0 | ||
| 2021 | 6 x 75cl | 3 | 0 | ||
| 2022 | 12 x 75cl | 1 | 0 | 9819.12 | |
| 2022 | 6 x 75cl | 3 | 0 | 4909.56 | |
| 2023 | 6 x 75cl | 3 | 0 |
Rating: 93 –93
(aged for eight months in 70% stainless steel tanks and 30% in wooden barrels): Limpid yellow. Lively aromas of green apple, white peach and anise are complicated by hints of smoky minerals and pungent flowers that build with air. Juicy, seamless and taut on the palate, offering fresh pear, nectarine and lemon zest flavors that deepen on the back half. The mineral and anise notes repeat on a penetrating finish that lingers with outstanding tenacity.
Rating: 92 –92
(aged for eight months in 70% stainless steel tanks and 30% in wooden barrels): Bright yellow. Spicy orchard fruits and pit fruits on the deeply scented nose and in the mouth. Fleshy and broad, developing a floral nuance as the wine opens up. Melon and white peach notes linger on a long, subtly smoky finish that shows very good energy and focus.
Rating: 89 –89
Peach skin color. Complex nose melds peach, fresh herbs and peaty soil tones. Dense but juicy and fresh, with peach and spice flavors. Not as fleshy as some recent vintages but has plenty of flavor and wears its alcohol lightly.
Rating: 94 –94
Beaucastel's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is 80% Roussanne (half in new oak and half in second-use wood) and 20% other permitted varieties (made in stainless steel). Honeyed pear and pineapple notes dominate the nose, while the palate is full-bodied rich and luscious, yet remains vibrant, refreshing and long on the finish. I find it delicious now and don't see any need to age it, although it will undoubtedly hold together for several years.
Rating: 92 –92
The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache Blanc and 5% other mixed varieties (Bourboulenc, Clairette, Picardan). Fermented and aged in a mix of barrels (30%) and tanks (70%), it offers up appealing flinty notes on the nose, accompanied by ripe pineapple and pear scents. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, round, ripe and generous, with an expansive feel in the mouth and hints of warmth, honey and spice on the long finish. Lush and luxurious, it's drinkable young, but has a track record of aging well for as long as a decade depending on your preferences.
Rating: 92 –94
A terrific example of Beaucastel's white, the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc boasts lavish aromas of honeydew and tangerine. It's full-bodied and round, lush and concentrated, with terrific length and presence on the palate.
Rating: 92 –94
Tasted prior to bottling, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc contains a whopping 80% Roussanne. There's 15% Grenache Blanc, with the balance being a blend of the appellation's various permitted white varieties. It's a rich, full-bodied example of white Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with honeyed notes of pineapple, peach and citrus all playing leading roles, while a touch of anise appears on the lingering finish.
Rating: 94 –94
The family is a great believer in Roussanne as the white grape of the Southern Rhône, and the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc includes 80% of that variety. Waves of honeyed pineapple and tangerine sorbet flood the senses. This is really lush, yet it's underscored by a briny sense of freshness that prolongs and lingers on the finish. It may be drunk young or aged several years.
Rating: 92 –94
The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc offers classic, gorgeous notes of buttered citrus, honeycomb, stone fruits and hints of pineapple. It’s a fresh, medium to full-bodied, elegant white that will put on a touch of weight by the time it’s bottled; it will have to ability to drink well for 3-4 years and keep for decades.
Rating: 91 –91
A good, maybe not great vintage for the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc, it’s still outstanding and offers loads of orchard fruits, brioche, crushed rock and buttered citrus in a medium to full-bodied, elegant, pretty style. I’d give bottles a year in the cellar and drink them over the following decade, but a recent retrospective has convinced me you can age these for just about as long as you’d like.
Rating: 93 –93
The 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has gorgeous tangerine, quince, honeysuckle, white flower and buttered-citrus notes in its full, fleshy, ripe and mineral-laced character. Clean and vibrant, with both richness and freshness, give it another year or so and enjoy bottles over the following couple of decades.
Rating: 94 –94
Reminding me of the 2012, the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc, which was just bottled two weeks ago, has fabulous richness and depth in its honeysuckle, tangerine, white flowers and buttered almond-like aromas and flavors. It too shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, with integrated, yet juicy acidity, good concentration and serious length. It will be better in another year or so, drink nicely for 2-4 years, and then all bets are off. At that point, it’s best to cellar for a decade.
Rating: 94 –94
Always one of the leading whites in the appellation, the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc checks in as a blend of 80% Roussanne (from 40-year-old vines) and the balance Grenache Blanc, Picardan, Clairette and Bourboulenc. Aged 70% in tank and 30% in barrels, it displays terrific notes of white currants, dried pineapple, flowers and salty minerality that flow to a medium to full-bodied, gorgeously textured and rich palate feel. Despite the richness level, it stays lively and fresh, and should drink nicely for 3-4 years. It will, of course, keep longer, but these are notoriously finicky in how they age. Drink now-2018+. Covering a full 175 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, with significant holdings throughout the Southern Rhone (mostly vinified at and released under their Famille Perrin brand), Chateau De Beaucastel is a benchmark estate that excels at all price points. Looking at the wines reviewed here, 2011 is surprisingly strong (especially for the Chateauneufs) and with their perfumed aromatics and supple textures, they show a lot of similarities to the 2009s. The 2012s as a whole show more freshness and purity, with good concentration, and should require more bottle age to come around. Both vintages are worth seeking out. Looking at the 2011s across the board, all of which were in bottle, it appears to be a strong vintage here. While the vintage suffered due to uneven ripening in the Grenache, it was actually a solid vintage for Mourvedre and this shows, particularly in the Chateauneufs. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 94 –94
One of my favorite vintages for this cuvee, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc never fails to impress. Revealing a medium-gold color, it has gorgeous richness and depth in its honeyed stone fruits, peach, buttered-citrus and salty minerality. Voluptuous, full-bodied and decadently textured, it has both freshness and focus, both of which come through on the finish. I'd drink bottles over the coming 2-3 years, or hold off for a decade.
Rating: 92 –92
The big white wines, of course, are the two cuvees of Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc. The 2011, which is 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache blanc vinified in tank, is showing tremendous notes of honeyed grapefruit, white peach, apricot, marmalade, crushed rock and spring flowers. Now these wines are made from earlier harvested grapes and no malolactic, so they should age slightly better and more evenly than they have in the past. As I have said before, the Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, from 100% old vine Roussanne, is the Montrachet of southern France. The 2011 is sensational, a wine of great complexity, intensity and full-bodied power. Lots of rose petal, marmalade, honeysuckle, candle wax, tangerine and orange rind notes make up this fabulously rich, intense wine that just blows me away every time I taste it in its youth. Whether it ages well or not is always debatable, but I would certainly drink it over the next 4-5 years, given the fact that it is so remarkable already. (Not yet released) As I said last year, the Perrin family is a large one indeed, with brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois sitting at the top of the hierarchy and their four sons, Mathieu, Pierre, Thomas and Marc increasingly taking charge of their negociant business and their extensive estates throughout Southern Rhone. Now controlling over 1200 acres, as well as having a network of contracts, this operation is the equivalent of a major Southern Rhone train operating at high speed. Moreover, they are doing some incredible work in all price ranges. Other 2011s that the Perrin boys have produced include the following wines, which were very good across the board, especially for 2011s. In particular, readers need to take a hard look at their estate in Vinsobres, which is making the finest wines of that appellation, and more recently, what they are doing in Gigondas with the estate they purchased there, Clos des Tourelles. These are special wines. There are now three cuvees of Gigondas from the Perrins - the Gigondas La Gille, the Gigondas Vieilles Vignes and the Gigondas Clos des Tourelles. All three merit serious attention. Tasting the 2010s, which were all set to go into bottle right after my visit, certainly shows that this vintage is impressive, although I'm not sure that Marc and Pierre Perrin haven't done as good a job with their selections in 2011. Three cuvees of Gigondas look to all have outstanding potential and will probably be in bottle by the time this report is published. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 90 –90
The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc (80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc vinified in tank) exhibits very good acidity along with a lighter, more delicate style than previous vintages (malolactic is now totally blocked), and restrained orange peel, tangerine oil, white peach, honeysuckle and candle wax notes. This medium to full-bodied, zesty, fresh wine is still backward and unevolved, so cellar it for 1-2 years and drink it over the following 10+. (Not yet released) Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin as well as their four sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have quickly become the dominate wine producers of the entire southern Rhone Valley. They have expanded their operation even further by partnering with the Jaboulets. Now having over 1,200 acres in vine and extensive contracts, this is a high quality locomotive, great news for consumers seeking a range of top quality red and white wines in all price ranges. The Perrins’ greatest success is undeniably their enormous quantities of high quality, inexpensive wines called La Vieille Ferme, a white from the Cotes du Luberon and a red from the Cotes du Ventoux. The Perrins are now the top producers of wines from the cool climate southern Rhone appellation of Vinsobres, located in the northern sector of the region and meaning “sober wine.” In 2008, the Perrins purchased one of the better estates in Gigondas, Clos des Tourelles, a 25 acre property located at the southern end of the village from which they make two cuvees. True stars in the Perrin portfolio are the white and red Cotes du Rhone from their estate called Coudoulet which is adjacent to the appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape. As longtime readers know, Chateau de Beaucastel makes two of the great white wines of the southern Rhone, although in Chateauneuf du Pape the rather dramatic amelioration of quality that has taken place with white winemaking has given them more competition than they had a decade ago. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 95 –95
The 2010 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is slightly more closed than its 2011 counterpart, as it has been in the bottle for nearly a year. Again 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache blanc vinified in tank, the wine displays the typical tropical fruit notes intermixed with rose petals, crushed rock, spring flowers and a rather exotic, somewhat tropical character, but tangerines dominate the fruit spectrum. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. As I said last year, the Perrin family is a large one indeed, with brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois sitting at the top of the hierarchy and their four sons, Mathieu, Pierre, Thomas and Marc increasingly taking charge of their negociant business and their extensive estates throughout Southern Rhone. Now controlling over 1200 acres, as well as having a network of contracts, this operation is the equivalent of a major Southern Rhone train operating at high speed. Moreover, they are doing some incredible work in all price ranges. Other 2011s that the Perrin boys have produced include the following wines, which were very good across the board, especially for 2011s. In particular, readers need to take a hard look at their estate in Vinsobres, which is making the finest wines of that appellation, and more recently, what they are doing in Gigondas with the estate they purchased there, Clos des Tourelles. These are special wines. There are now three cuvees of Gigondas from the Perrins - the Gigondas La Gille, the Gigondas Vieilles Vignes and the Gigondas Clos des Tourelles. All three merit serious attention. Tasting the 2010s, which were all set to go into bottle right after my visit, certainly shows that this vintage is impressive, although I'm not sure that Marc and Pierre Perrin haven't done as good a job with their selections in 2011. Three cuvees of Gigondas look to all have outstanding potential and will probably be in bottle by the time this report is published. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 96 –96
Even richer and more concentrated than the 2011, the blockbuster-styled 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is almost overflowing with notes of marmalade, ripe pineapple, white flowers and assorted honeyed nuances. A big, ripe and layered white, it stays remarkably fresh and lively on the palate, although I suspect there's little real acidity. Beautiful on all counts, it's so good now, I don't see a need to hold off, but it will be very long-lived.
Rating: 94 –96
The 2009 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc reveals the greater intensity, richness and potential longevity of this vintage. Made from the same blend as the 2008, the 2009 sees some new oak (15%), but that component is totally hidden by copious notes of quince, honeyed citrus, peaches and apricots. With good acidity as well as a full-bodied mouthfeel, this stunning white should evolve for 7-8 years or longer. (Not yet released) The Perrin brothers, Jean-Pierre and Francois, and their sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have long owned over 200 acres of top sites in Chateauneuf du Pape and can now claim over 1,000 acres in the southern Rhone as their empire under the Perrin et Fils label expands considerably. This is good news for consumers as the Perrins, one of the great winemaking families of France, are dedicated to producing high quality wines, preserving top terroirs, and to providing a range of wines in all price ranges that are as good as consumers can expect. Purchasing a wine from this family is about as close to a guarantee of authenticity and high quality as one can expect. There is no secret to surviving the recent world-wide recession and fragile economy. No matter what field one is in – wine, the service industry, product development, etc., one has to over deliver in order to keep consumers happy. Don’t do that, expect a dwindling economic return and possible failure. The Perrins long ago adopted this philosophy, even in boom times. Speaking of wines that over deliver, readers should be searching out the super inexpensive, bargain priced La Vieille Ferme offerings. The Perrins have put together a terrific portfolio of top wines from the leading Cotes du Rhone Villages. With the exception of the estate wines in Vinsobres, they are all dominated by Grenache. To date, the finest wines have emerged from the 2007 vintage, but very strong efforts have been produced in 2009. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 96 –96
The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is an amazingly open-knit, full-bodied, honeyed white boasting tons of orange marmalade, quince, white currant and creme brulee liqueur-like notes, stunning purity and richness, and a fabulous full-bodied, unctuously textured mouthfeel. Its richness is off the charts, and the wine offers a completely contrasting style with the more delineated, zesty 2010. I would opt for drinking the 2009 over the next 4-5 years. Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin as well as their four sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have quickly become the dominate wine producers of the entire southern Rhone Valley. They have expanded their operation even further by partnering with the Jaboulets. Now having over 1,200 acres in vine and extensive contracts, this is a high quality locomotive, great news for consumers seeking a range of top quality red and white wines in all price ranges. The Perrins’ greatest success is undeniably their enormous quantities of high quality, inexpensive wines called La Vieille Ferme, a white from the Cotes du Luberon and a red from the Cotes du Ventoux. The Perrins are now the top producers of wines from the cool climate southern Rhone appellation of Vinsobres, located in the northern sector of the region and meaning “sober wine.” In 2008, the Perrins purchased one of the better estates in Gigondas, Clos des Tourelles, a 25 acre property located at the southern end of the village from which they make two cuvees. True stars in the Perrin portfolio are the white and red Cotes du Rhone from their estate called Coudoulet which is adjacent to the appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape. As longtime readers know, Chateau de Beaucastel makes two of the great white wines of the southern Rhone, although in Chateauneuf du Pape the rather dramatic amelioration of quality that has taken place with white winemaking has given them more competition than they had a decade ago. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 93 –93
The 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc did not go through malolactic fermentation (a choice the Perrins make depending on vintage conditions and intrinsic acidity). A blend of 80% Roussanne and the rest Grenache Blanc and other white varietals, this beauty offers up notes of nectarines, orange marmalade, rose petals, and honeysuckle as well as terrific richness, slightly more acidity than usual, and an exuberant, honeyed, full-bodied style. Drink it over the next 5-7 years or longer. One of the great estates of the Rhone Valley, Chateau Beaucastel has been run by several generations of the Perrin family, beginning with the late Jacques Perrin (who died in 1978), then the brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois, and now their sons Thomas, Marc, Pierre, and Mathieu. Beaucastel has nearly 200 acres in vine in Chateauneuf du Pape, and they have branched out with an impressive operation under the Perrin et Fils label, purchasing grapes and acquiring land (in Vinsobres and Gigondas, for example). Their goal is to become the most recognized name for high quality wines in the southern Rhone. As shrewd consumers know, one of the best values in under $10 a bottle wine is La Vieille Ferme. The Perrin et Fils cuvees include wines made from purchased grapes as well as their new acquisitions in Vinsobres, Gigondas (25 acres), and the Cotes du Rhone village of Cairanne (35 acres). The Perrins enjoyed tremendous success with their 2008 red wines, largely because yields ranged between 18 hectoliters per hectare for Beaucastel, to only 20 hectoliters per hectare for Coudoulet. The mildew that affected everyone was the culprit. The entire family acknowledged there was an extraordinary triage and culling out of the grapes at the sorting tables. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The 2008 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc vinified in tank and wood) had its malolactic blocked so the wine’s stability and ageworthiness are more consistent than in the past. This beauty may be the finest dry white of the vintage. Aromas of nectarines, orange marmalade, rose petals, quince and buttered tropical fruits are offered in a medium to full-bodied format with lots of freshness and acidity. Consume it over the next 5-8 years. The Perrin brothers, Jean-Pierre and Francois, and their sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have long owned over 200 acres of top sites in Chateauneuf du Pape and can now claim over 1,000 acres in the southern Rhone as their empire under the Perrin et Fils label expands considerably. This is good news for consumers as the Perrins, one of the great winemaking families of France, are dedicated to producing high quality wines, preserving top terroirs, and to providing a range of wines in all price ranges that are as good as consumers can expect. Purchasing a wine from this family is about as close to a guarantee of authenticity and high quality as one can expect. There is no secret to surviving the recent world-wide recession and fragile economy. No matter what field one is in – wine, the service industry, product development, etc., one has to over deliver in order to keep consumers happy. Don’t do that, expect a dwindling economic return and possible failure. The Perrins long ago adopted this philosophy, even in boom times. Speaking of wines that over deliver, readers should be searching out the super inexpensive, bargain priced La Vieille Ferme offerings. The Perrins have put together a terrific portfolio of top wines from the leading Cotes du Rhone Villages. With the exception of the estate wines in Vinsobres, they are all dominated by Grenache. To date, the finest wines have emerged from the 2007 vintage, but very strong efforts have been produced in 2009. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 95 –95
Revealing a touch of darker gold in its color, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is another blockbuster that continues to shine every time I've opened a bottle. Ripe, decadent and supple, it has boatloads of honeycomb, caramelized citrus, brioche and ripe tropical fruits to go with a gorgeously textured feel on the palate. I suspect it's best consumed over the coming year or two or cellared for 5-6 years.
Rating: 95 –95
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc tastes like a prodigious Montrachet, with that gout de petrol character that recalls earth and truffles. Those characteristics are interwoven with marmalade, honeysuckle, apricot, and peach fruit along with extraordinary precision and depth that last well past a minute. This great, great effort is the most distinctive white wine of Southern France. It is difficult to find a better white Chateauneuf du Pape than Beaucastel. Much like their reds, their whites are made in a style that is atypical for the appellation. It is put through full malolactic, and one-third is barrel fermented, then blended with the two-thirds that is aged in tank. Extraordinarily rich and honeyed, it is ideal for drinking with intensely flavored culinary dishes. Beaucastel and its subsidiary wines marketed under the Perrin et Fils moniker are consistently among the bright shining stars of France. I have been visiting this estate for nearly thirty years, and over that time I have seen all the elements of what makes wines great – an incredible respect for the vineyards, a conscientious, uncompromising work ethic, and extraordinary passion for gentle handling of fruit from their sites. Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin seem to be gradually inching closer to retirement as their sons take more and more of a front row seat in the running of this outstanding estate. This is a marvelous portfolio of wines, from the extraordinary values, to the top-end world classics. While one could say this is as traditionally run estate as can be found in western Europe, the Perrins are remarkably flexible if they sense that quality can be improved. Quality rises dramatically with the Perrin et Fils cuvees. The Cotes du Rhone Reserve wines are produced primarily from the estate vineyards at Grand Prebois and Vinsobres, with some purchased fruit from such Cotes du Rhone appellations as St.-Gervais. Marc Perrin, who is responsible for winemaking at Perrin et Fils, seems to go from strength to strength with this line of wines, which includes negociant bottlings as well as some from estate vineyards in Vinsobres. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 95 –95
The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is even better. Meriting the same rating as I gave it last year, it is a delicious, beautifully textured, light gold-colored white revealing plenty of white peach, apricot, nectarine, and honeysuckle notes as well as a distinctive florality and minerality. More honeyed and fuller-bodied than its 2008 counterpart, it should drink beautifully for 7-8 years, then go into an oxidative state. It is somewhat of a gamble as to what will happen thereafter. Beaucastel’s limited production luxury cuvee first produced in 1986 is their 100% Roussanne Vieilles Vignes offering. Fifty percent is barrel-fermented in one-year-old barrels, but no new oak is utilized. One of the great estates of the Rhone Valley, Chateau Beaucastel has been run by several generations of the Perrin family, beginning with the late Jacques Perrin (who died in 1978), then the brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois, and now their sons Thomas, Marc, Pierre, and Mathieu. Beaucastel has nearly 200 acres in vine in Chateauneuf du Pape, and they have branched out with an impressive operation under the Perrin et Fils label, purchasing grapes and acquiring land (in Vinsobres and Gigondas, for example). Their goal is to become the most recognized name for high quality wines in the southern Rhone. As shrewd consumers know, one of the best values in under $10 a bottle wine is La Vieille Ferme. The Perrin et Fils cuvees include wines made from purchased grapes as well as their new acquisitions in Vinsobres, Gigondas (25 acres), and the Cotes du Rhone village of Cairanne (35 acres). The Perrins enjoyed tremendous success with their 2008 red wines, largely because yields ranged between 18 hectoliters per hectare for Beaucastel, to only 20 hectoliters per hectare for Coudoulet. The mildew that affected everyone was the culprit. The entire family acknowledged there was an extraordinary triage and culling out of the grapes at the sorting tables. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 94 –94
The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne and the rest Marsanne, Picpoul, and Bourboulenc) possesses classic notes of orange marmalade, honeysuckle, and rose petals, a full-bodied, unctuous texture, gorgeous purity and richness, and a stunningly long finish. It can compete with the finest full-throttle, dry whites of France as well as the world. It is difficult to find a better white Chateauneuf du Pape than Beaucastel. Much like their reds, their whites are made in a style that is atypical for the appellation. It is put through full malolactic, and one-third is barrel fermented, then blended with the two-thirds that is aged in tank. Extraordinarily rich and honeyed, it is ideal for drinking with intensely flavored culinary dishes. Beaucastel and its subsidiary wines marketed under the Perrin et Fils moniker are consistently among the bright shining stars of France. I have been visiting this estate for nearly thirty years, and over that time I have seen all the elements of what makes wines great – an incredible respect for the vineyards, a conscientious, uncompromising work ethic, and extraordinary passion for gentle handling of fruit from their sites. Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin seem to be gradually inching closer to retirement as their sons take more and more of a front row seat in the running of this outstanding estate. This is a marvelous portfolio of wines, from the extraordinary values, to the top-end world classics. While one could say this is as traditionally run estate as can be found in western Europe, the Perrins are remarkably flexible if they sense that quality can be improved. Quality rises dramatically with the Perrin et Fils cuvees. The Cotes du Rhone Reserve wines are produced primarily from the estate vineyards at Grand Prebois and Vinsobres, with some purchased fruit from such Cotes du Rhone appellations as St.-Gervais. Marc Perrin, who is responsible for winemaking at Perrin et Fils, seems to go from strength to strength with this line of wines, which includes negociant bottlings as well as some from estate vineyards in Vinsobres. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 94 –94
The 2006 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape white (80% Roussanne and the rest Marsanne, Picpoul, and Bourboulenc) is superb. A beauty of richness, elegance, and complexity, it exhibits notes of tropical fruits, marmalade, honeysuckle, rose water, and spice. The wine is rich, full-bodied, with tremendous texture, length, and purity. It should drink well for at least 5-6 years before it goes into that weird state of development. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 90 –90
The 2005 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, a blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% white Grenache fermented 80% in tank and 20% in barrel, has exuberant notes of honeysuckle, rose water, and hazelnuts. It is medium to full-bodied, rich, and certainly one of the finest of the white Chateauneuf du Papes. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 94 –94
The 2004 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is outrageously good, one of the finest examples they have made over recent vintages. I retasted it and it has jumped in stature and score considerably. It is a beauty, with formidable richness, loads of honeysuckle, litchi, and buttery grapefruit, lemon, and tropical fruits in a full-bodied, well-delineated style with terrific acidity and definition. It should drink well for a decade or more. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The 2004 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache blanc, fermented in 80% tank and 20% barrel. It possesses dramatic notes of honeysuckle and apricot jam, beautiful full body, an expansive texture, good underlying acidity (a hallmark of this vintage), and a long, persistent finish. It should certainly drink well for 4-6 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 91 –91
Beaucastel’s white Chateauneuf du Papes are undoubtedly the finest white wines of the southern Rhone. While the 2003s may not be at the level of their 2001 or 2000 counterparts, they are very strong efforts. Beaucastel’s 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache blanc fermented in 80% tank and 20% barrel) exhibits a concentrated, orange marmalade and honeysuckle-scented nose, a light gold color, a thick, low acid palate, and relatively high alcohol as well as glycerin. It is a chewy, fleshy white to consume over the next 3-4 years. P.S. Of considerable interest during my September, 2004 visit was Francois Perrin’s decision to open a 1980 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (rated 94). He did this because I have been visiting Beaucastel for nearly 26 years, and in its youth, I remember this wine was quite impressive. At about age 6-7, it seemed to be completely dead and oxidized, and had taken on an old gold color. However, according to Perrin, about five years ago it came alive, and this bottle was spectacular. The aging of not only white Hermitage (which is primarily Marsanne) but also these special cuvees of Roussanne (particularly Beaucastel’s, but I suspect also other Roussane-based white Chateauneuf du Papes such as Grand Veneur’s La Fontaine and La Nerthe’s Clos de Beauvenir) is bizarre, and defies any rational explanation. They are compelling when first released, then become nearly undrinkable only to re-emerge in the future, but one is never quite sure at what age that will happen. It is one of the mysteries of wine, but it is reassuring to know there are still things the so-called experts cannot explain. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The 2003 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc exhibits plenty of orange liqueur notes with hints of rose petals and tropical fruits. It has more freshness, but the wine’s light golden color and somewhat evolved, mature style suggests it should be drunk over the next 2-3 years – no later. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The whites from this rain devastated vintage are the best kept secret (most were harvest before the flood) and Beaucastel's 2002 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has a vibrant, light gold color as well as classic notes of orange blossom, stone fruits, honeysuckle and salty minerality. Medium to full-bodied, balanced and clean, it's drinking at point, and while I'd drink bottles over the coming 4-5 years, it will hold for longer.
Rating: 87 –87
The 2002 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (a blend of 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache blanc, and 5% diverse grapes) exhibits Roussanne’s honeysuckle/rose petal-scented perfume, medium body, good underlying acidity, and a light, but fruit-driven style. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, Picardin, and Bourboulenc) is a buttery, smoky, rich example with a mineral-like intensity, full body, and lavishly rich flavors that coat the palate with honeysuckle, marmalade, and glycerin. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 95 –95
The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc exhibits classic notes of honeyed nuts, butter, orange marmalade, rose water, and acacia flowers. Full-bodied, concentrated, and unctuous, it will drink well for 5-12 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 94 –94
The exceptional, light gold-colored 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape white was not put through malolactic fermentation (the first vintage since 1995 where malolactic was not done) because of extremely low acidity. It exhibits a bouquet of crushed currants, quince, honeysuckle, citrus, and butter. Evolved, rich, and full-bodied, with a sensational texture as well as richness, this blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, fermented in cuves (80%) and barrels (20%), requires drinking during its first 5-6 years of life given its fragile acid balance. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 90 –90
Slightly darker colored than other wines in the retrospective, the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape had a touch of oxidation in its buttered-citrus, hazelnut, spice-cabinet and old-furniture bouquet. Still impressive on the palate, though, with beautiful depth of fruit and a layered, balanced texture, it's hard to say where this is going with any degree of certainty, but my gut says continue to cellar.
Rating: 91 –91
Beaucastel's 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is a terrific success, not surprising in view of the fact that all recent vintages have been gorgeous. It is made from 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, fermented in 80% cuves and 20% barrels, of which 10% are new, and bottled with minimal clarification. Like a top Hermitage, the Perrins subscribe to the theory (and I tend to agree) that this is a wine to drink during its first 2-4 years of life, or forget it for at least a decade. It takes on an oxidized mid-life crisis between 5-10 years of age, and re-emerges as a completely different animal around age ten. Of course, each vintage has its own track record, but it is a fascinating wine to drink young, as well as an impressive one to have after ten years. The light gold-colored 1999 reveals intense marmalade and rose petal, honeyed richness with a touch of spice and toast. Thick and unctuously-textured, but supported by excellent acidity, it can be drunk over the next 4-5 years, and then ignored for a decade. It will keep for 20 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 95 –95
Readers seeking white Beaucastels for long-term aging should check out the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape. It offers a sensational bouquet, but its acid profile results in more delineation as well as greater potential for longevity. Full, concentrated, and layered, it will drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 89 –89
The 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache, and 5% Picardin) is a rich, full-bodied, powerful white with notes of honeysuckle, rose petal, cinnamon, and oranges. The 1998 is restrained, and in need of several years of cellaring. This wine possesses uncommon longevity (a 1980 tasted at Beaucastel in June was remarkably fresh and vigorous), so do not be surprised to see the 1998 evolve and last for two decades. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 93 –93
The 1997 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (now packaged in an attractive heavy antique bottle) is a blend of 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache Blanc, and 5% diverse white varietals. 1997 was an excellent vintage for white Chateauneuf du Pape, and this wine reveals the bold, fleshy, sappy, full-bodied fruit so evident in the vintage. The 1997 exhibits plenty of honeyed citrus and floral (rose) scents, an unctuous texture, good glycerin, and heady alcohol in the long, luscious finish. This impressively-endowed Chateauneuf is ideal for drinking over the next decade or more. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 91 –91
More fresh and lively than the '99, the 1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has classic, mature notes of orange rind, floor wax, mineral and more nuances of buttery, tropical fruits. Brighter in acidity, yet still nicely concentrated, it's drinking at point now but I suspect will evolve nicely going forward.
Rating: 89 –89
The bevy of white wine offerings from Chateau Beaucastel is impressive. No tasting note given. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; tel. (802) 875-2139
Rating: 89 –89
The 1996 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc (70% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc, and 10% various varietals) offers a citrusy, spicy nose, medium body, tangy acidity (a hallmark of this vintage), and good weight and richness. It has already begun to close down and is in need of 2-3 years of cellaring. It should keep for 15 or more years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802
Rating: 92 –92
The 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache Blanc, and 5% various other white wine varietals) sees 25% small oak casks. It is a rich, dense, opulently styled wine with copious quantities of honeyed fruit, considerable power, and a rose petal/honeyed richness with a touch of toast and spice. Drink this long, delicious, thick Beaucastel over the next few years before it closes down. Last tasted 6/96.
Rating: 90 –91
The 1995 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache Blanc, and 5% various other white wine varietals) sees 25% small oak casks. It is a rich, dense, opulently-styled wine with copious quantities of honeyed fruit, considerable power, and a rose petal/honeyed richness with a touch of toast and spice. Drink this long, delicious, thick Beaucastel over the next few years before it closes down. It will age for 10-15 or more years. This wine was tasted between June 1 and June 16, 1996. Beaucastel represents the highest level of serious, artisanal winemaking, but readers need to keep in mind that Beaucastel is the most atypical wine of Chateauneuf du Pape, so different, it almost deserves its own appellation. Beaucastel has had spectacular vintages in both 1994 and 1995. In 1994, the estate began its harvest early (August 31). In 1995, the key was to wait out the two weeks of intermittent showers between September 7 and 19, and pick late. The success of this philosophy was seen time and time again when tasting the successes and mediocrities of the two vintages. Those producers who harvested early in 1994 made the finest wines, but in contrast, those who picked late in 1995 were usually the most successful. Beaucastel has continued to refine their white wine program, utilizing a small amount of barrel aging in addition to some new casks. The results are increasingly delicious, and in the case of the cuvee of old vine Roussanne, sumptuous. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; tel. (802) 875-2139
Rating: 93 –93
The 1994 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is more honeyed and rich than the 1995. It is full-bodied and intense, with gobs of cherry-like fruit. Structured yet dense, it is a formidable example of Beaucastel's white wine. It will age for 10-15 or more years. Last tasted 6/96.
Rating: 93 –93
The 1994 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc is more honeyed and richer than the 1995. It is full-bodied and intense, with gobs of honeyed cherry-like fruit. Structured yet dense, it is a formidable example of Beaucastel's white wine. It will age for 10-15 or more years. This wine was tasted between June 1 and June 16, 1996. Beaucastel represents the highest level of serious, artisanal winemaking, but readers need to keep in mind that Beaucastel is the most atypical wine of Chateauneuf du Pape, so different, it almost deserves its own appellation. Beaucastel has had spectacular vintages in both 1994 and 1995. In 1994, the estate began its harvest early (August 31). In 1995, the key was to wait out the two weeks of intermittent showers between September 7 and 19, and pick late. The success of this philosophy was seen time and time again when tasting the successes and mediocrities of the two vintages. Those producers who harvested early in 1994 made the finest wines, but in contrast, those who picked late in 1995 were usually the most successful. Beaucastel has continued to refine their white wine program, utilizing a small amount of barrel aging in addition to some new casks. The results are increasingly delicious, and in the case of the cuvee of old vine Roussanne, sumptuous. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; tel. (802) 875-2139
Rating: 91 –91
The 1994 Beaucastel Blanc is a wine of considerable opulence and lavish richness, with Roussanne's honeyed, rose petal, exotic, spicy personality well-displayed. Full-bodied and rich, with low acidity, this wine offers a great mouthful of Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well (because of its size and high alcohol) for another decade. The white wine cuvees of Chateau Beaucastel have climbed to an even higher quality level. For the cuvee classique, Beaucastel has gradually increased the percentage of Roussanne to nearly 80%. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; tel. (802) 875-2139.
Rating: 90 –90
The 1993 Beaucastel blanc (80% Roussanne) is fat, unctuous, and full-bodied with layers of honeyed fruit. It is a massive dry white wine that is best paired with powerfully scented Provencal cuisine. Last tasted 7/96.
Rating: 90 –90
The 1993 Beaucastel Blanc (80% Roussanne) is fat, unctuous, and full-bodied with layers of honeyed fruit. It is a massive dry white wine that is best paired with powerfully-scented Provencal cuisine. The white wine cuvees of Chateau Beaucastel have climbed to an even higher quality level. For the cuvee classique, Beaucastel has gradually increased the percentage of Roussanne to nearly 80%. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; tel. (802) 875-2139.
Rating: 89 –89
The 1992 blanc exhibits a floral, honeyed bouquet and medium-bodied, firm, chewy flavors. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Last tasted 6/95.
Rating: 89 –89
I had the pleasure of tasting the component parts of the 1993 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, which looks to be an excellent wine. Since it has not yet been blended, I will hold judgment. Also excellent, 1992 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc exhibits a floral, honeyed bouquet and medium-bodied, firm, chewy flavors. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT; Tel. (802) 875-2139
Rating: 88 –88
The 1990 blanc exhibits a great deal of strength and muscle in a full-bodied, well-balanced, ripe, heady, nicely textured style. The wine is less concentrated than the 1989, but it is still an impressive mouthful of wine. As I have stated in the past, if you are going to buy this wine, drink it within 2-3 years of the vintage, or be prepared to cellar it for 10 years. It tends to be best several years after bottling, at which time it closes up, not to emerge for 7-8 years. Last tasted 11/94.
Rating: 88 –88
The 1990 Chateauneuf du Pape-Blanc exhibits a great deal of strength and muscle in a full-bodied, well-balanced, ripe, heady, nicely textured style. The wine is less concentrated than the 1989, but it is still an impressive mouthful of wine. As I have stated in the past, if you are going to buy this wine, drink it within 2-3 years of the vintage, or be prepared to cellar it for 10 years. It tends to be best several years after bottling, at which time it closes up, not to emerge for 7-8 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT.
Rating: 94 –94
A wine Marc says was medium brown in color and oxidized five years ago, the 1989 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has certainly turned the corner and was singing on this occasion. Offering up a touch of petrol in its buttered-citrus, lemon curd, mineral and dried-herb bouquet, it's fabulous on the palate and offers medium to full-bodied richness, a silky, seamless texture and no hard edges.
Rating: 86 –86
The 1989 Beaucastel blanc seems surprisingly forward, round, richly fruity, ripe, and luscious on the palate, with at least 10-12 years' evolution ahead of it. It is drinking well now, but I suspect it will close up within the next several years. Last tasted 4/95.
Rating: 87 –87
The 1988 Beaucastel blanc has a spicy, almost peppery bouquet that suggests a red wine more than a white wine. In the mouth it is fat, full-bodied, deep, and rich, with excellent length. While the Perrins prefer the 1989, I prefer the 1988. Last tasted 6/92.
Rating: 90 –90
Somewhat reminiscent of the 1982, this full-bodied, rich wine has scents of nuts and pineapples, is very concentrated, extremely long, and should keep for at least a decade. Anticipated maturity: now-2000. Last tasted 1/87.
Rating: 93 –93
Coming from a relatively unheralded vintage in the Southern Rhone, the 1980 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc tastes like a wonderfully mature white Burgundy. White flowers, brioche, citrus, smoked earth and honeysuckle all emerge from this beautiful, fully mature Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc. Medium-bodied and with bright acidity in its supple, nicely textured profile, at 35 years of age it is still fresh, lively and drinking brilliantly.
Rating: 95 –95
Shockingly good, and a wine that makes me want to chuck every Anticipated Maturity guess I've made for this cuvee, the 1974 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has thrilling flinty minerality and gunpowder-like characteristics to go with lemon, honeyed citrus, flower aromas and flavors. Elegant, layered and seamless, with fabulous purity and fresh, it's a beautiful white and a testament to the age-ability of the whites from this estate.
Rating: 93 –93
Another fully mature, yet beautiful white is the 1962 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc. It has complex notes of licorice, truffle, wood smoke and lively underlying citrus and lemon curd notes to go with a medium-bodied, crisp and still amazingly textured feel on the palate. Improving with time in the glass, it's another gorgeous wine that was a privilege to taste.
Rating: 90 –90
The still youthful, light-gold colored 1954 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is subtle and complex, with notions of macadamia nuts, vanilla cream and butter-poached fruits all emerging from the glass. Like the other mature whites in this retrospective, it has notable freshness and purity, as well as a solid mid-palate, good fruit and a clean finish. It too gains flesh and fruit with time in the glass and was in no danger of cracking up.
Rating: 92 –92
(80% roussanne, 15% grenache blanc and the rest the other permitted white varieties): Light gold. Richer and more pungent than the 2010 version, offering an array of floral, orchard fruit and spice scents and a hint of candied ginger. Fleshy and expansive, with very good depth to its pear, peach and honeydew flavors. A note of iodine adds an exotic touch to the long, sappy finish.