M. Chapoutier, Côtes du Rhône Blanc (Rhône Valley, France) 2021

 Wow — this wine packs fantastic value into an affordable bottle.  At a mere $13, it offers remarkable depth and complexity.  It comprises a blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Clairette, and Bourboulenc.  Scents of lemon zest, green pears, crisp apples, apricots, and daffodils all fill the glass.  Lees aging gives the wine a full-bodied, creamy texture, while stainless steel fermentation preserves a lively freshness.  The alcohol, sitting at 13.5%, is perfectly balanced against the fruit and fullness of the wine.  This wine is a joy on its own and would pair well with meatier seafood dishes too.  If you are looking for a daily-drinker, especially as the autumn weather settles in, give this wine a try.