2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc
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Tasting notes
Pale green-tinged gold. A highly perfumed nose displays scents of ripe melon, nectarine and honey, while lemon pith, smoky mineral and toasted grain nuances build in the glass. Suave and seamless on the palate, showing very good depth to the mineral-laced peach nectar and poached pear flavors, which are braced by a suggestion of bitter citrus zest. In a distinctly generous style, finishing with subtle sweetness and strong, mineral-dominated persistence.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
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The 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Château Sixtine Blanc is a classic effort from this estate, which always turns out a powerful, rich style of white. The 2017 offers a touch of reduction and minerality, with classic notes of white peach, citrus blossom, and mint. Medium-bodied, concentrated, with bright acidity and lots of potential, it needs a decant if drinking any time soon and will be at its best from 2019-2024+. The blend is 95% Roussanne and 5% Clairette raised in old barrels and stainless steel.
Like the 2016, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc incorporates 5% Clairette, while the rest is Roussanne. This is a plush, full-bodied white, with rich honey and yellow cherry notes and a long, briny finish. It should drink well for at least 4-5 years.