A blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, and barrel fermented Roussanne, the 2011 Domaine Giraud Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc is bright and fresh, displaying a classic profile of white peach, mineral, lime peel, and hints of flowers to go with a medium-bodied, pure, focused palate. This continues to build in the glass, and while there is beautiful richness and depth, it stays very classy and overall elegantly constructed. It should have a decade or more of total longevity.

The 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, comes from the lieu-dit called Les Gallimardes, and is a blend of Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Roussillon and Clairette. Copious notes of tangerine oil, ripe melon, honeysuckle and caramelized grapefruit jump from the glass of this wine. Full-bodied with zesty acidity as well as purity, this gorgeous white Chateauneuf du Pape should be enjoyed over the next several years.- RP