Domaine Chante Cigale 2019 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc
Chante Cigale means singing cicada. The property has been in the family since the 19th century and is currently run by Alexandre Favier, who assumed the reins at the ripe old age of 20! The domaine is planted to 40 ha of red and 5 ha of white on 45 different parcels throughout the appellation. The Blanc is a blend of equal parts Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Bourbelenc and Clairette. The grapes are destemmed and fermented with native yeasts. Elevage is in a combination of tanks and 5% new oak barrels with no malolactic fermentation. Only a small amount of this wine is made, and it is always one of the great values for white from the region.
Jeb Dunnuck - 91 Points
"Starting with the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc from this estate, it checks in as a blend of 20% each of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, Picpoul, and Bourboulenc. Giving up a rock-solid bouquet of honeyed apples, citrus blossom, white flowers, and a kiss of honeyed toast, this beauty has a supple, seamless texture and beautiful overall balance. Medium-bodied on the palate, this is just a classic Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc that does everything right, delivering plenty of mid-palate and texture, a solid sense of freshness, and a clean, dry finish. It’s going to shine on the dinner table and is well worth following over the coming 2-4 years."