The 2010 Nostre Pais Blanc is a blend of 80% Grenache blanc and the rest equal parts Roussanne and Viognier aged on its lees for six months with some barrel fermentation but limited exposure to oak. It comes across as a top-flight white Chateauneuf du Pape rather than a less expensive Costieres de Nimes. Light gold in color with an extraordinary nose of vivid honeysuckle candle wax marmalade and tropical fruit the wine is elegant has good acidity and wonderful freshness but a surprisingly intense full-bodied mouthfeel. Following a tasting I had this wine with Maryland soft shell crabs and it was an exquisite marriage. Drink it over the next year.

A seriously impressive white the 2010 Michel Gassier Costières-de-Nîmes Nostre Pais a partially barrel fermented blend of 90% Grenache blanc 5% Roussanne 5% Viognier displays a beautifully fresh pure bouquet of citrus-driven fruits subtle floral notes and serious minerality with loads of crushed stone and wet rock-like characteristics. More richness and depth comes through on the palate where the wine shows fantastic balance a rich full mid-palate juicy acidity and a classic clean finish. Top-flight stuff and while I think this should be consumed in its first year or two of life it might have an interesting aging profile.