Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2003

WA95: Beaucastel’s white Chateauneuf du Papes are undoubtedly the finest white wines of the southern Rhone. While the 2003s may not be at the level of their 2001 or 2000 counterparts, they are very strong efforts. The spectacular 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes was aged on its lees, and, depending on the vintage, the Perrins do some batonnage. This is an unctuously-textured, blockbuster, dry white supported by good acidity as well as a fabulous perfume of rose petals, orange marmalade, Chinese black tea, and tropical fruits. Thick and unctuously-textured, but not heavy, this gorgeous white is already drinking well. How it ages will be fascinating to follow.