Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Cotes du Rhone Blanc Lieu Dit Clavin 2016

One of the pitfalls of white wines from the south of France is that they are often a little flabby while being flamboyant in the same moment; this wine is not cut from that cloth. The acidity from the small doses of the supporting grape varieties such as Bourbolenc, Picpoul and Picardin give this wine layers of acidic snap and spicy. The remaining 80% are varying amounts of Grenache Blanc and Clairette, grape varieties that carry a modest acidity and are useful in fleshing out the wine in both the nose and palate. This blend creates a savory beauty laced with dried grasses, white flowers, honeysuckle, white stone fruits and a light spiciness. It is a beautiful and somewhat rare wine made on ancient vines from the Clavin lieu-dit. Sadly, there are only about 200 cases of this wine made each year. It is a must if you love southern French white wines with great complexity and zing.