Finishing up with two whites, the 2011 Vacqueyras Mineral Blanc is an outstanding blend of 50% Bourboulenc, 25% Roussanne and 25% Grenache Blanc that’s aged 12 months in tank. Very fresh, with white peach, citrus blossom, crushed rock and buttered almond aromas and flavors, this delicious, focused and balanced effort should continue to drink nicely for another year or three. One of my favorite southern Rhone estates, Montirius, which is run by the passionate Christine and Eric Saurel, fashions classic Gigondas and Vacqueyras from their roughly 143 acres under vine, 40 of which are in Gigondas. There is absolutely no wood whatsoever used and aging occurs all in concrete tanks. The wines show classic profiles and are always well made. The 2012s are a step up over the 2011s and offers additional richness and texture. Importers: Ruby Wines, Avon, MA; tel. (508) 588-7007; and Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620