Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc La Crau 2011

WS93: Tightly coiled for now, with pepper, garrigue and briar notes wrapped around a core of steeped cherry, damson plum and blackberry fruit. Cedar and sandalwood accents line the finish, revealing a hint of blood orange. This needs some cellaring to unwind fully. Best from 2016 through 2026. 16,700 cases made, 4,400 cases imported.

WA90: The 2011 Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a blend of 40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc and the rest Roussanne and Bourboulenc from 50-year-old vines. Aged in tank, foudre and, occasionally, demi-muid, it exhibits complex aromatics of rose water, buttered citrus, crushed rocks and spring flowers. The Bruniers have one of the more significant holdings of white grapes in Chateauneuf du Pape, a whopping 16 acres that produce 2,000 cases of white wine. The 2011 should drink well for 4-5 years.