Domaine Usseglio Pure Clairette 2022

There's but a single 15-hectoliter Stockinger foudre of the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Pure Clairette, a stupendous white CdP that kicks off with leesy, toasted-grain aromas and wends its way toward white peaches, with stops along the way at fennel and cracked white peppercorns. Medium to full-bodied, with a silky texture and ample length, this should be capable of drinking well for close to a decade.

The colour of this is deep straw with a striking pink tinge. A powerful and ripe dry white with a rich, almost oily texture, but also a lot of pink grapefruit freshness. The little hint of bitterness at the finish really accentuates the minerality. Made from 50% of the white version of clairette and 50% of clairette rose grown on sandy soil with a northern exposure. Matured in a mix of demi-muids and larger Stockinger barrels. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.