BODEGAS Y VINEDOS ARTAZU Santa Cruz de Artazu Blanco Grenache Blanc, Navarra

Clos Saouma Arioso Blanc, Châteauneuf-du-Pape This is sourced entirely from the Lieu-dit of Pierredon and 100% Grenache Blanc. Its vinified the same way as the Magis see above however the élevage is just one single 500 litre demi-mud for 36 months on full lees, no racking/sulphur for the full period.

“The residual sugar is 90 g/l, says Jean-Bernard Berthomé. The aromatics, despite the vintage’s reputation as a heatwave year, are spot on. This is classic evolving première tri Vouvray, a melange of limestone minerals drizzled with a a sweet honey caramel, intertwined with a wonderful citrus freshness and lift. It seems delightfully promising. The palate, I am happy to report, follows on from this first impression quite beautifully, the fruit and minerals resting on a bed of sweet caramel, and although this is not a vintage rich in botrytis I do detect a little note here too. The wine as a whole maintains a very fine balance too throughout. A very impressive, broad, imposing wine with a long and cleanly balanced finish. Delicious.” 18.5/20 points, Chris Kissack, Wine Doctor (January 2016)