Domaine du Vieux Lazaret, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc (Rhône Valley, France) 2022 ($43, David Milligan Selections)

Domaine du Vieux Lazaret has a historic place in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The original building was a hospice established in the 1600’s by Lazaret monks, who tended to the sick and poor of the French countryside. A devastating epidemic of the plague in 1720 ended its use as a hospice and the Quiot family acquired the estate in 1748. Today, they are noted Châteauneuf producers and their Châteauneuf Blanc is a rare and delicious treasure. The 2022 Châteauneuf Blanc offers opulent fruit, layers of complexity and a rich texture that exemplifies the fine Rhône Valley style. It has forward aromas of ripe peach and pear fruits backed by floral, cream and tropical fruit nuances. The flavors show peach and tropical fruits interwoven with hints of cream and spice. Its rich texture reflects the high quality of the fruit sources and the winemaking skill that supports it. Enjoy it now or over the next few years.
92 Wayne Belding