| Producer | Domaine de Saint Prefert |
| Country | France |
| Region | Rhone Valley |
| Subregion | Southern Rhône |
| Varietal | Rhone Blend |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Sku | FR-WH2882 |
| Size | 1.5L |
The 2018 Vieilles Clairettes is a revelation in white Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Poured from a magnum, its pale gold hue offers an air of refinement. The nose blossoms with aromas of lemon curd, white flowers, toasted brioche, honeysuckle, and delicate peach—aromas that balance richness with luminosity . On the palate, it unfolds in full yet graceful layers—medium to full-bodied—with silky texture, vibrant acid, and a saline-tinged finish that’s both mouthwatering and lingering. Despite its textural weight, the wine never feels heavy; instead, it remains elegantly structured and precise, combining power and finesse. Critics have hailed it a world-class white Rhône and awarded it 98 points from Jeb Dunnuck and 93–95 from Wine Advocate, citing its flawless balance and compelling energy . With a magnum offering even greater presence and aging potential, this is a rare standout in both vintage and format.
Domaine Saint Préfert, now operated under the stewardship of the Isabel Ferrando family, is a benchmark estate in Châteauneuf-du-Pape revered for its dedication to traditional viticulture and soil-driven wines. The Cuvée Spéciale Vieilles Clairettes is one of their most exclusive offerings, crafted from 100% Clairette sourced exclusively from 80‑ to 100‑year‑old vines—meaning this isn’t just a varietal white, but a living legacy (grape age data) . The evolution of winemaking for this cuvée includes fermentation in amphora-like glass “globes” as well as aging in neutral foudres—techniques that elevate freshness, clarity, and purity while ensuring the wine retains its stunning minerality and elegance .
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