The whites from this rain devastated vintage are the best kept secret (most were harvest before the flood) and Beaucastel's 2002 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc has a vibrant, light gold color as well as classic notes of orange blossom, stone fruits, honeysuckle and salty minerality. Medium to full-bodied, balanced and clean, it's drinking at point, and while I'd drink bottles over the coming 4-5 years, it will hold for longer.

The 2002 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (a blend of 80% Roussanne, 15% Grenache blanc, and 5% diverse grapes) exhibits Roussanne’s honeysuckle/rose petal-scented perfume, medium body, good underlying acidity, and a light, but fruit-driven style. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802