Domaine Julien Masquin - Montplaisir blanc 2016

Bettane & Desseauve

About the domain :

The location of the vineyards is exceptional, on the sands of Pignan and Rayas, with the Côtes-du-Rhône adjoining the prestigious Châteauneuf area. Excellent viticulture and precise vinification in a rented vat room in the heart of the village. All that remains for this talented young winemaker to do is to confirm the quality of his wines in future vintages. The 2016 white is superb in its finesse and precision. As for the 2015 reds, they're a success. The cuvée Memora, in an infused style, exudes great purity. The cuvée Montplaisir, on the other hand, displays superior ambition, making it one of the bottles to remember in 2015. An estate to keep an eye on.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the domain :

Paul Masquin acquired vines in Courthézon in 1936, which he sharecropped. In 1998, his grandson Julien took over the business, taking the grapes to the local cooperative, which he left in 2009 to produce his own wines. Today, the vineyard covers 22 ha.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Fresh and zesty, Châteauneuf du Pape Montplaisir Blanc 2016 is a blend of Grenache blanc 70% and Bourboulenc 30% that sees no wood during its aging. It's medium-bodied to full-bodied, fleshy and round on the palate, and already lemony and refreshing on the finish, and a pleasant touch of bitterness.