The 2006 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc is sensational. Tight on the nose, it unfolds with scents of lanolin, hazelnut, melted candle wax and orange rind, even a suggestion of freshly picked strawberry, until you are completely mesmerized. The palate is precocious, perhaps with a little botrytized fruit, vanilla pod and almond shavings. It’s slightly creamy in texture with wild peach on its caressing finish. Just a joyous wine.

The stunning 2006 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc possesses aromas of acacia flowers, honeysuckle, melon, quince, and orange marmalade. Amazingly, this brilliant example of white Chateauneuf du Pape should last for 10-20 years.. After going through a transitional period after Jacques Reynaud died in 1997, it is safe to say that his nephew, Emmanuel Reynaud, has returned this venerable estate to its previous level of high quality. While Chateauneuf du Pape is a warm appellation, Rayas is situated in a cool micro-climate, and is undoubtedly not an easy property to maintain. It is also known for its sandy soils, which are in total contrast to the rock-strewn plateau a half mile to the east, west, and south. Two utterly profound Rayas Chateauneuf du Papes have been produced recently, the 2005 and 2007. 2007 is a superb vintage at Chateau Rayas Importer: Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400