Classification | Cru Classe |
Type | White |
Brand | Domaine Ferrando |
Vintage | 2022 |
Country | France |
Region | Rhone |
Volume | 1,5 |
Condition | Perfect |
Label | Perfect |
Drinkable | 2025-2035 |
Stock | 6 |
90% Clairette Rose, 10% Clairette. Whole-bunch-pressed. Vinified and aged in foudres. Certified organic and biodynamic. Cask sample.
Tasted blind. A reduced nose – grilled almonds. Sweet spice and chamomile with peach, nectarine and nuts. The toasty and controlled reduced notes come through on the fresh finish. A succulent streak of acidity and a layered, complex finish.
The 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Cuvée Spéciale Vieilles Clairettes has come together beautifully since I tasted it from foudre last year. Medium- to full-bodied and bursting with energy, the 2022 showcases prominent quince, grapefruit, ripe pear, yellow apple, melon and honeysuckle. Focused and layered, the concentrated 2022 closes with a delicate salty sensation and excellent length.
A step up, the not yet bottled 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Special Vielles Clairettes is 100% old vine Clairette brought up in demi-muids. Quince, honeysuckle, salty minerality, citrus oil, and spicy nuances all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless, layered, elegant profile, riveting purity and precision, and a great finish. It would put many a Grand Cru White Burgundy to shame.