Clos de L Oratoire Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc 2022
Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes is an esteemed estate in the heart of Châteauneuf du Pape, a region renowned for producing some of the Rhône’s most expressive wines. The domaine has built a strong reputation for quality across both its reds and whites, combining traditional methods with precise vineyard care. The vineyards are planted on the three classic Châteauneuf du Pape soil types - large rounded galets roulés, sandy alluvial soils and fine limestone/clay, with white grape parcels often favouring the cooler, sandy and limestone rich sites that promote aromatic clarity. The estate embraces respectful, low intervention viticulture and while it is not formally certified organic or biodynamic, sustainable practices are widely applied.
The 2022 Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc is a harmonious blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne and Bourboulenc, each contributing unique elements: Grenache Blanc provides body and richness, Clairette brings bright acidity, Roussanne offers floral complexity and Bourboulenc adds refreshing lift.The favourable 2022 vintage delivered warm days and cool nights, resulting in concentrated fruit with balanced natural acidity. Early manual harvesting in order to reinforce the expression of the terroir. Pressing is carried out as whole clusters in a 30 hL closed cage pneumatic press with moderate settling lasting for 12 to 36 hours at cold temperatures (6°C). The juices are vinified in egg shaped concrete vats to create gravitational movement (known as the ‘vortex phenomenon’) by ensuring that the lees remain suspended so as to increase aromatic potential. 80% of the blend is fermented in vats at between 15 and 18°C and then aged on its full lees and without malolactic fermentation. The remaining 20% of the blend is fermented in 300L new oak barrels and stirred gently through until December time.
Aromas of ripe pear, white peach, citrus blossom and saline minerality lead to a refined palate with lingering freshness. This elegant blanc pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, shellfish, creamy risotto, grilled fish and delicate poultry dishes. Critics have praised the 2022 blanc for its expressive fruit, balance and exceptional length, reinforcing Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes’ status among Châteauneuf du Pape’s top white producers.