Presentation
Presentation
The production of white wine at Beaucastel is limited as we only have 7 hectares of white vines planted. The main variety is Roussanne, representing 80% of the blend.
The vintage
The years in 9 regularly mark the memory of winegrowers and this vintage was no exception. After an early bud burst in early April, flowering was gradual and took place in good conditions in all the vineyards. Then a hot summer began in late June, which the vines bravely resisted: they suffered little from water stress, thanks to the chamomile herbal infusions we sprayed on the vegetation to cope with the heat. Finally, the harvest went as usual, without any particular precocity. The wines are promising; a vintage in 9 is born, once again, under a lucky star.
Location
Château de Beaucastel has 7 hectares of white varieties.
Terroir
Molasse seabed of the Miocene period covered by diluvial alpine deposits (rolled pebbles).
Ageing
Handpicked in small cases, sorting of the grapes, pneumatic pressing, settling of the juice, fermentation (30% in oak barrels, 70% in tanks) for 8 months. Bottling after 8 months.
Varietals
Roussanne : 80%
Grenache blanc : 15%
Picardan, Clairette, Bourboulenc : 5%
Grenache blanc : 15%
Picardan, Clairette, Bourboulenc : 5%
Advice
Serving
10°C in INAO glasses.
Tasting
Beaucastel white 2019 has a beautiful shiny golden colour. The nose is simply irresistible: ample and complex, it reveals a sumptuous bouquet with notes of roasted pineapple and subtly mixed white flowers. Very elegant, this wine then has a superb, opulent, delicately oaky texture in the mouth, with aromas of white flowers, honey and a zest of citrus before offering a long saline finish.
Reviews
"While the old-vine Roussanne cuvée from this estate gets all the attention from collectors, don’t make the mistake of discounting their classic Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc. The 2019 reveals a lighter gold hue as well as a beautiful and classic bouquet of honeyed citrus, quince, white flowers, bee’s wax, and a touch of flinty minerality. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it has flawless balance, nicely integrated acidity, and a great, minerally finish. You can enjoy bottles today with a decant or cellar for two to three decades, if you’re so inclined."
"A mealy nose, initially a little shy with a subtle whiff of almonds and red apple. Rounded and rich, and also has a note of bruised apple and marzipan. Creamy mouthfeel, and closed down for action just now. But all is really nicely put together, balanced and correct."
"Gentle, plump and fairly opulent this year, the oak is well handled, sits in the background and adds body, weight and complexity of aroma and texture. A balanced, very classic expression of Beaucastel blanc. The acidity is fairly low this year, but the wine has a savoury and noble bitterness that supplies the structure. A good vintage, but one to drink young. 80% Roussanne; all other Châteauneuf white grapes make up remainder. 30% of the blend goes into oak on a four-year rotation."
"Gorgeous, showing a lovely display of seamlessly layered apricot, peach, Cavaillon melon and mirabelle plum flavors, with meringue, brioche, salted butter and macadamia nut notes. Delivers a lengthy finish, where everything flows so beautifully that it just brings you right back wanting more. Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Bourboulenc."
