Looking pretty exotic and tropical at this stage of its evolution, the 2017 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher Blanc hints at banana and mango. Full-bodied and plush, it does show enough underlying crushed-stone and lime-zest notes to think it will drink well for a couple of years after release.

Dominated by Grenache Blanc (60%), the 2016 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher Blanc offers straightforward aromas of lime and tangerine and medium body. Other grape varieties (Clairette, Bourboulenc, Viognier) make themselves felt on the palate and finish, where the wine picks up hints of citrus zest and white pepper.

The 2015 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher Blanc is a blend of 60% Grenache Blanc, 30% Clairette, 5% Viognier and 5% Bourboulenc that was brought up all in tank. It’s a fresh, pure, classy white that offers lots of apple blossom, buttered citrus and stone fruits and will be ideal for drinking over the coming year. It’s a high quality white that I suspect won’t break the bank.