2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Domaine des Saumades, Rhône

Domaine Des Saumades

Four generations of Moussets have been winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However in 1995, Frank Mousset, whose day-job is at another winery with his brother-in-law, was approached to buy a 2.5 hectare parcel in the Pignan lieu-dit, beside Château Rayas. Franck and wife, Mureille, then opened Domaine des Saumades, only making wine here.

The sandy soils here are perfect for Grenache. Franck also had the foresight to plant Mourvèdre here around six years ago. He believes Mourvèdre is key to counter effects of climate change on Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s wines. Adding freshness, balance and Franck says, getting better annually in this parcel (currently, converting to organic certification). Since 2019 he adds 10% Mourvèdre into his otherwise pure Grenache red wine. The wines were very good but, with Mourvèdre, they are stunning. The white, typically 50% Grenache Blanc, 25% Clairette and 25% Bourboulenc, displays myriad flavours from fresh citrus to warming vanilla. This is what Châteauneuf-du-Pape is all about.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The most celebrated village of the Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the birthplace of the now indispensable French Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée system – imperfect though it may be. Compared to the Northern Rhône, the vineyards here are relatively flat and often feature the iconic galet pebbles – the precise benefits of which are a source of much debate. Minimum alcohol levels required by the AOC are the highest in France, but at 12.5% it is well below the natural generosity of Grenache, which only achieves its full aromatic potential when it is fully ripe and laden with the resultant high sugars. Syrah and Mourvèdre contribute the other defining elements in the blend, adding pepper, savoury spice and structure to the decadent Grenache. There are a further 10 permitted red grape varieties which can be used to adjust the “seasoning”. Of the five white varieties permitted, it is Grenache Noir’s sibling – predictably perhaps – Grenache Blanc, which dominates, though Roussanne shows a great deal of promise when handled well, notably at Château de Beaucastel.

Grenache Blanc/Garnacha Blanca

Grenache Blanc is a white grape variety closely related to the more widely known red grape, Grenache Noir (or Grenache). It is believed to have originated in Spain, specifically in the Catalonia region, but it has spread to many wine-producing areas worldwide.

Grenache Blanc is appreciated for its versatility and ability to adapt to various climates and terroirs. The grape typically produces aromatic wines with floral and fruity notes, including flavors of green apple, pear, citrus, and sometimes tropical fruits. In some cases, the wines may also showcase herbal or mineral undertones.

The grape is grown in several wine regions worldwide, with notable plantings in France (particularly in the Rhône Valley and Languedoc-Roussillon regions), Spain, the United States (especially in California), Australia, and South Africa.

Grenache Blanc is often used in both single-varietal wines and as a blending component in white blends. When used in blends, it can add body, richness, and aromatics to the final wine. It is also commonly blended with white Rhône varieties like Roussanne and Marsanne to create aromatic and complex wines.

Its crisp acidity and fruity character make it a versatile wine for food pairing. It pairs well with various dishes, including seafood, salads, roasted chicken, Asian cuisine, and Mediterranean dishes.