Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc 2012

Winery Background and History:

Clos des Papes was founded in 1893 and is located in Châteauneuf‑du‑Pape. It spans 35 ha across 24 parcels, with a small 4 ha block dedicated to its iconic white cuvée. The estate practices biodynamic viticulture and uses only old foudres and cement tanks to preserve purity. Viña Cubillo is repeatedly praised for its elegance and longevity; Clos des Papes Blanc has been sought after since its debut in 1955 and remains one of the most age‑worthy whites in the appellation 

Producer and Wine Maker:

Under the stewardship of Paul‑Vincent Avril, the estate vinifies grapes parcel by parcel in temperature‑controlled stainless steel and cement vats. Whites are bottled unfined and unfiltered after aging in old foudres. The focus is on low yields, mature vine age, and minimal intervention. Only 10 % of the vineyard is dedicated to white grapes to maintain quality 

Vineyards and Micro Climate:

The white parcel lies on clay‑sandy soils with galet stones, mainly in La Crau. Vineyards experience full Mediterranean sun, cool Mistral winds, and well‑draining conditions. Old vines average 35 years and produce balanced grapes with ripe phenolics and focused acidity 

Vinification & Aging Methods:

Grapes are destemmed, lightly pressed, then fermented parcel‑wise with some Clairette fermented in oak. No new oak is used. The wine ages in old foudres or cement for about 15 months, followed by bottle aging before release to build texture and complexity 

Tasting Notes:

Medium‑yellow color. Aromas of peach, melon, white currant, quince, honeysuckle, wet stone and subtle herbal notes. On the palate it’s full‑bodied with lush orchard fruit, mineral depth, fresh acidity and a long saline finish 

Food & Wine Pairing:

Pairs beautifully with creamy fish, shellfish, poultry in cream sauce, mushroom risotto, and Alpine cheeses. It also works well with lighter game dishes and vegetable gratins, balancing richness and acidity.

Service Methods and Temperatures:

Serve at 10–12 °C in a white Burgundy glass to highlight aromatics and production finesse. No decanting needed; serve gently to preserve texture and clarity.

Storage and Aging Potential:

When cellared at 12 °C in controlled humidity, it will evolve beautifully past 2032. Expect tertiary notes of honey, nuttiness, flint and herbal nuance while maintaining backbone and freshness 

Grape Varietals & percentage used:

Grenache Blanc · Roussanne · Clairette · Bourboulenc · Picpoul · Picardan

ABV (Alcohol by Volume):

14 %

Scores:

Wine Advocate (Jeb Dunnuck): 94 points

Vinous (Josh Reynolds): 93 points

Vinous: 93 points

Wine Spectator: 92 points

Wine Enthusiast: 92 points