As Chateauneuf-du-Pape goes, the British market tends only to drink red, of which you can find countless (mediocre) examples in supermarkets and middle-of-the-road restaurant wine lists.
Vieux Telegraphe, owned by the Brunier family, certainly does not belong in this category. The red wine of this estate has achieved an almost cult like status amongst Chateauneuf lovers and this white is not to be sniffed at either. A most excellent example of how white Chateauneuf should taste.
The white Châteauneuf, sourced from the five hectares of white varieties, is dominated by Clairette and Grenache Blanc, which comprise 40% and 30% of the blend respectively, followed by Bourboulenc and Roussanne which contribute 15% each. This wine is, however, more likely to see some oak, with some varieties, 40% of the total, fermented en barrique, whilst the remainder is fermented in stainless steel. It is aged in both, then bottled at nine months of age.
Colour: Deep rich golden white, sign of the 9 month oak ageing
Nose: Great minerality on the nose - sign of the great terroir on which it's grown in the Southern Rhone, the La Crau plateau
Palate: An array of white fruit such as peaches and apricots and also of violets. Great perfumed wine. The texture is gras, which is fantastic and the low alcohol for a white Rhone (13.5%) augurs well for the smooth and creamy finish this wine has. Slight herby notes and good acidity despite its 4 years of age.
