CDP Cuvee Prestige Blanc, Domaine de la Janasse 2016

One of the finest whites made in the vintage is unquestionably the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Prestige Blanc from Janasse. Based on 70% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc and the rest a mix of varieties, vinified and aged in demi-muids (there are only two barrels), it has rock star notes of white peaches, caramelized citrus, white flowers, spice, and subtle tangerine-like exotic notes. It’s a rich, medium to full-bodied, concentrated white that has vibrant acidity, perfect balance, and a great, great finish. There are few Rhône whites better than this beauty. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades.

The stunning 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Cuvee Prestige features dramatic flavors of honey, pineapples and tangerines. It's broad, full-bodied and expansive in the mouth, imbued with palate-saturating richness. A blend of 60% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc and the rest a blend of other permitted varieties, fermented and aged in 500- and 600-liter oak barrels, it boasts a flamboyant, exotic personality that I prefer to enjoy in its first several years. Drink Date 2018 - 2022

The top cuvée that’s mostly Roussanne blended with small amounts of Grenache Blanc and Clairette, bought up all in once used demi-muids, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Prestige had just finished fermentation at the time of this tasting. Possessing surprising acidity, terrific notes of lemon rind, orange blossom and white flowers, full-bodied richness and a great finish, it's going to be another serious white from this top-notch estate.