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Vinous says of this 91 point wine, “The Burgundian influence is palpable in Avril’s mineral driven, nervy Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc.” It’s from a pioneering family estate, and for a glorious, rich and exotic Rhône white you’ll find few better.
Tasting notes
Powerful pineapple and spice, floral notes and a long finish
Aroma
Pear, peach and white currant with light tropical impressions
More information
The Avril family have been making wines in Châteauneuf since the beginning of the 18th century and their Clos des Papes, founded in 1896, is a benchmark for the appellation – both in its white and its red versions. The estate is spread across 24 plots encompassing rocky soils, sand, limestone and gravel, contributing to the wine’s renowned complexity. Vincent Avril has a love of white Burgundy, so works diligently to show off terroir in his wines. Hence Clos des Papes Blanc is vinified and aged in stainless steel to maintain its clarity of fruit and freshness. The wine is delicious to drink young and crisp, but will age for a decade too, developing a nutty complexity and honeysuckle richness. Gently chill and serve with sauced white meats.