This really is phenomenal. It shows subtle complexity with dried lemons papaya and hints of vanilla. What blows you away is the palate. It is so dense yet agile with amazing tension and a bright finish. It builds and builds in the finish. Superb. Speechless. Drink or hold.

The 2009 Pape Clement Blanc is an absolutely remarkable wine which is not a surprise given what this historic estate has done in both white and red over the last 20 years. Their white wine an intriguing blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc 35% Semillon 16% Sauvignon Gris and the rest Muscadelle comes from 7.5 acres of pure gravelly soil. An exquisite nose of honeysuckle tropical fruit pineapple green apples and orange and apricot marmalade soar from the glass. Great acidity a full-bodied mouthfeel and a texture more akin to great grand cru white Burgundy put this wine in a class by itself. I wouldn't be surprised if there were others who also think this is pure perfection in white Bordeaux. I tasted this wine four separate times and gave it a perfect score three of the four times. It is one of most exquisite dry white I have ever tasted from anywhere - period. Certainly the founder of Pape Clement Bertrand de Goth would be happy with his decision to plant a vineyard here in 1305. Pure genius!

A warm vintage, and the canary yellow colour is striking. Great quality with a ton of personality and power, first time to see Sauvignon Gris appearing in the blend (in this vertical at least), and it adds an apricot brioche note. The honeysuckle is just a little too evident as it opens, giving notes of oxidation or evolution, so I would drink soon to make the most of what is a gourmet, rich white. 47hl/h yield. Jeanne Lacombe technical director, Michel Rolland consultant. 100% new oak. This was widely celebrated on release, but for me it's the 2007 that is more successful.

A big creamy shortbread- and white peach-filled version with extra layers of salted butter heather and grapefruit pulp driving through the finish. A more muscular style but with the vivacity and length to pull it off. Best from 2014 through 2020. Tasted twice with consistent notes. 750 cases made. -JM