Southern French Whites
by Dustin Soiseth
2024 Cassis Blanc
France | Provence
What does a row of striped beach chairs on a pristine Mediterranean beach taste like? What white wine pairs best with Debussy’s La Mer? Yes, wine can be just a beverage, but it can also be incredibly evocative. Harnessing the herbal and savory side of traditional varieties like Marsanne, Ugni Blanc, and Clairette, with a hint of white peach, Clos Sainte Magdeleine’s mineral, crunchy Cassis blanc transports me to the sea every time.
2024 Grenache Gris
France | Languedoc-Roussillon
Grenache Gris is an old mutation of Grenache Noir often used in blends both white and red, but at Mas Champart it’s taking a star turn. This mid-weight white offers up notes of green apple and honeysuckle, along with a delicate peach note that will be familiar to fans of Domaine de Fontsainte’s Gris de Gris rosé (which is almost entirely Grenache Gris). Satisfying and delicious, with a pleasantly textured, slightly saline finish, it is lip-smackingly good.
2024 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc “La Crau”
France | Southern Rhône
How to Write About a Truly Grand Wine Without Resorting to Clichés: A Primer
Resist the urge to describe the wine as “monumental” or a “thoroughbred,” and especially not as “the nectar of the gods.” Your readers will expect greatness.
Do not concoct a list of fulsome descriptors like, but not limited to, sumptuous, poised, elegant, ravishing. Your readers will expect to be transported to heights of ecstasy with each sip.
Refrain from listing flavors and aromas like, but not limited to, white flowers, pear, beeswax, and hazelnut. Your readers may have allergies.
Do purchase as much of said wine as possible for yourself before publishing. Your readers may buy it all up.