2005 South Valley Grenache Clairette - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône (6/9/2007)
Côtes du Rhône Blanc
WIML87,PURPLE87,NOWA,NOWS

Tasted June 9, 2007 at home. 13% alcohol. 60% Grenache, 40% Clairette. Opened and served immediately in a Spiegelau Authentis Weiss Wein glass. Light yellow color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Nose of yellow apples, pears, flint and maybe some nutmeg/almond thing going. Later the trademark “earthiness” of Clairette Blanc starting showing underneath. Flavors of citrus fruits, yellow apples and apricot pits. Medium acidity, light to medium body. Short to medium finish. Quite unusual. Almost reminded me of a Chardonnay on the nose and palate. I’m betting that’s because of the relatively high Clairette Blanc in the blend. Drink now. (87 pts.)