When you hear Châteauneuf-du-Pape, your mind usually drifts towards the great reds of the Rhône Valley. Those in the know, however, understand that the region’s whites are among France’s best-kept secrets. One such wine is Chapoutier La Bernardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015, crafted by one of the Rhône’s most respected ambassadors, a house whose history dates back to 1808 and whose philosophy is firmly rooted in expressing terroir through biodynamic viticulture and meticulous winemaking. At the same time, Chapoutier La Bernardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015 offers a rare opportunity to discover what a great white Rhône wine tastes like when it has reached its ideal stage of maturity.
Chapoutier La Bernardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015 comes from old vines planted on the region’s famous stony terraces, where the large, rounded pebbles absorb and retain the warmth of the sun, helping the grapes achieve perfect ripeness. The blend is based on the traditional white varieties of the appellation, including Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Roussanne, while fermentation with indigenous yeasts in demi-muids and foudres, followed by around nine months of ageing in the same vessels, brings richness, complexity and excellent ageing potential.
And this is where the real magic lies. The 2015 vintage has had the time to evolve slowly and gracefully in bottle. Today, Chapoutier La Bernardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015 combines the floral, generous character of Rhône white wines with the captivating complexity that only bottle age can provide.
Very limited quantities available.