Clos de L'Oratoire des Papes : Les Chorégies 2021

A 50-50 blend of Bourboulenc and Clairette, the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes les Chorégies Blanc was fermented and aged in a mix of new oak barrels and concrete eggs. Scents of celery leaf, white currant, pear and lime appear on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is plump but also a bit austere, finishing a little hard and angular.

An elegant, savory version, with truffle and earth notes moving into a sweet core of melon and juicy lemon. Leesy, salty and long, with pretty floral high tones. Dry earth and lemon pith bitterness mark the finish. Drink now through 2026. 275 cases made, 25 cases imported.

Sweet, charming aromas of peach blossom, lemon verbena, acacia honey, and stone gently unfold in the glass. With time to breathe, the wine's bright acidity becomes more pronounced. The palate reveals citrus pith and pulverized almond, finishing delicately with honeysuckle, sweet baking spices, and soft stony notes. This wine is approachable now with proper aeration.

50% Bourboulenc, 50% Clairette. Vinified and matured in concrete eggs and new barriques. Tasted blind. Slightly estery note on the nose with apple and marzipan. Lots of freshness through the mid palate. Very enjoyable – good concentration of fruit beneath the zippy core. (AC)

The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Les Chorégies matured for 9 months in old oak barriques and terracotta jars. It showcases enticing crushed jasmine, yellow apple, pear, pastry and white peach aromas. This 2021 is a medium to full-bodied, vibrant wine with moderate levels of soft acidity and a bright finish.

Pale straw colour with a green hue. Pure and precise nose - chalky with fresh almond, pale stone fruit, ripe citrus and a mild backbone of oak. The palate is very precise and tense in a "cooler" northern style yet with the texture and ample fruit of the south, fine extract and very gentle oak adding texture and weight, crisp young fruit with crushed peach and almond notes leading on to a very long and unctuous finish. Nicely done.

An even split of Bourboulenc and Clairette, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Chorégies Blanc has pretty citrus and white peach-like fruit as well as some floral and mineral nuances. It’s medium-bodied, clean, has a vibrant, almost salty vibe, and a great finish.