99pts Jeb Dunnuck

In contrast, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes (100% Roussanne) is brought up in all new oak, and it has a normal pH of 3.7 and an alcohol of 14.5%. (In comparison, the classic white has a pH of 3.6 and slightly less alcohol at 14%.) Rich, full-bodied, and opulent, it has a gorgeous perfume of caramelized white peach, acacia flowers, toasted spices, and orange blossom. One of the most powerful, concentrated whites in the vintage, its oak is perfectly integrated, it's flawlessly balanced, and as I've written in the past, it's the Montrachet of the Southern Rhône! Barrel Sample: 96-99

98pts Decanter

Great concentration this year, making for a really intense, sappy Roussanne; pear tarte tatin flavours, alongside the intense cigar tobacco, cedar and sandalwood. Dense and concentrated, it's weightier than the 2020 vintage, and riper and denser than most 2021 Châteauneuf blancs. Huge length. The oaking is robust, it shows quite strongly so give this time. All aged in oak, half new, half one-year-old, mostly demi-muids.

97pts James Suckling

It's really hard to do the aromas of this wine justice, such is their complexity, extending from the whole range of candied citrus through ripe apricot to dried thyme. Amazing mouthfeel, the creamy stony and delicately zesty aspects of the wine beautifully interwoven to create a ravishingly beautiful whole. In spite of the power this is light on its feet at the very long, refined finish. 100% roussanne from ancient vines. From organically grown grapes.

97pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Caramel and honey notes add an extra layer of richness to the ripe pineapple and melon fruit in the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes. Full-bodied and rich without seeming heavy, with a wonderfully long, silky finish. Barrel Sample: (95-97)

Winemaker Notes

A magnificent deep and intense golden robe. Opulent and complex, the nose is particularly seductive, typical of this Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, with notes of honey, lightly stewed, very ripe fruit such as apricots, peaches and brioche. Very elegant on the palate, a delicate bitterness and a subtle salinity perfectly balances the richness, power and structure of Roussanne. This remarkably balanced wine reflects the perfect development of Roussanne on this exceptional terroir.