Côtes du Rhône, Domaine de la Bastide, Bastide Blanc, 2022

Domaine de la Bastide’s vineyards are near the village of Visan in the far northern reaches of the Cotes du Rhone appellation and within sight of the hills that define the eastern edge of the Rhone Valley. While there’s plenty of sunshine and mid-day heat here, the nights cool off more quickly than further south, making the limestone soils exceptionally well suited to fresh and delicious, whites.

This blend of Viognier, Roussanne, Clairette and Bourboulenc all planted by Vincent Boyer about 15 years ago and farmed organically. The ripe fruit is harvested in the early morning cool and fermented and aged in cool stainless steel tanks for maximum freshness. You’ll find generous aromas that centre on mid-summer ripe yellow peach and fresh apricot with accents of white flowers and honeysuckle. The wine feels rich and broad on the palate, but not at all heavy or thick, with lush peach and apricot fruit, more floral/honeysuckle, and a juicy dash of lime for freshness. The limey acidity and a touch of dusty mineral lends freshness to the rich, long, finish and keeps you coming back for more.

Producer: Domaine de la Bastide