Domaine du Pegau, Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee A Tempo Blanc 2014 (1x75cl)

The finest white ever produced at this estate is unquestionably the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée A Tempo. Made by assistant winemaker Andreas Lenzenwoger, who’s increasingly leading up the white program here (for the better), it comes all from the Mont Pertuis lieu-dit located just to the east of the village, and was farmed all organically/biodynamically. I actually visited this vineyard last year prior to harvest and it was noticeably more healthy and vibrant than just about every other vineyard in the area. A blend of equal parts Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Roussanne that was vinified and aged five months in equal parts stainless steel tanks and French oak, there’s a tiny 100 cases to go around. It offers incredible notes of lychee, subtle pineapple, mint and hints of exotic herbs to go with a medium to full-bodied, ultra-pure, layered and concentrated feel on the palate. Hats off to Andreas for busting his butt in the vineyard and he’s made a sensational white that can be enjoyed today or cellared for a decade. As classic and old school as it gets, Domaine du Pegau is run by the father/daughter team of Paul and Laurence Feraud. Assistant winemaker Andreas Lenzenwoger, who is responsible for the new special Cuvee A Tempo (a sensational white), is increasingly handling the white program. This team has turned out outstanding wines in both 2013 and 2014. eRobertParker.com #221 Oct 2015