Delas Frères Côtes du Rhône Saint-Esprit Blanc
Rhône, France
Vintage:2023 (Current)
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Reviews
JancisRobinson.com 15/20 Points
Tasted blind. Ripe nose of banana skin and straw. A custard-apple note on the palate and a textured mid palate – some good fruit here and a rich finish.
JamesSuckling.com 90 Points
Plenty of candied lemons, white peaches and fresh almonds. Bright and lively on the very harmonious, medium-bodied palate, which is less creamy than many examples of this appellation, but is refreshing and very well balanced at the animating finish. A cuvee based on grenache blanc with viognier, roussanne, marsanne and clairette. Drink now.
Overview
The Côtes du Rhône Saint-Esprit Blanc consists of a blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Viognier varietals from the right bank vineyards of the southern Rhône Valley. The Grenache adds structure to the wine while the Clairette and Bourboulenc contribute to its fine aromatic quality.
The climate is Mediterranean and bears the stamp of the "mistral" wind. This strong wind results from a difference in atmospheric pressures between the northern and southern parts of the Rhône valley. It is beneficial to the vine's growth. The region is also marked by seasonal rains, and hot, exceptionally sunny weather in the summer months.
Winemaking
Vinified through the traditional method, this Côtes du Rhône shows the strength of the terroir. The grapes are harvested at the peak of their maturity and acidity balance. After pressing and cold settling for a period of 24 hours, the musts are racked and fermented in stainless steel tanks at a maximum temperature of 64°F. Malolactic fermentation is avoided to preserve natural balance and freshness in the wine and to enhance its finesse. The blend is then stored in stainless steel tanks until bottling. Prior to the bottling, the wine is lightly fined and filtered to ensure perfect stability.
Tasting Notes
The Côtes du Rhône Blanc has a golden straw hue with green tinges. The main aromas are reminiscent of white flowers and yellow fruit, enhanced by touches of exotic and citrus fruit. On the palate, the wine is alert, seductively suave and fresh.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs well with grilled fish, waterfowl or enjoyed as an aperitif.
Technical Information
Varietals: Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Viognier
Soil Composition: Granite