Based on 70% Grenache Blanc and 30% Clairette, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Le Plateau Blanc comes all from the upper Mont Redon plateau of pure stone soils and was brought up in new oak. It has a sensational nose of honeyed white peach, orange blossom, chalky minerality, white flowers, and subtle yet perfectly integrated spicy oak. This rich, medium to full-bodied, concentrated white has beautifully integrated acidity, flawless balance, and a great, great finish. It's up with the true gems of the vintage and, I suspect, will have at least a decade of longevity, probably longer.

A polished, stylish version, offering a robe of toasty oak draped around a core of spiced apple, yellow plum and honeyed peach flavors. Caressing in feel, with a firming spine of salt and mineral notes giving shape and energy. Elements of warm spices and bitter herbs add nice tension to this opulent, expansive style, with smoked vanilla bean and shortbread accents echoing on the long finish. Drink now through 2030.