DOMAINE LA SOLITUDE Châteauneuf du Pape “Vin de La Solitude” White 2023

Made according to the 18th-century vinique art. The wine consists of a large number of co-fermented grapes with much longer macerations than those made today.

The grapes of each grape variety are harvested by hand and then put in vats over their maturity. After pressing them, the juices are co-fermented in barrels of several wines. The alcoholic fermentation is due to indigenous yeasts, followed by the malolactic fermentation. The wine is raised in barrels on lies for 10 months.

The winery reissued the four original labels of the Wine of Solitude.

“This feels like stepping into a still forest clearing, although the very subtle candied citrus aromas have nothing to do with that image. Fantastic balance of creaminess, very fine tannins and stony minerality, plus almost perfect integration of fruit and oak. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.” – James Suckling, 96 Points

“Another brilliant white from this estate. Its medium gold hue is followed by a Burgundian-like bouquet of orchard fruits, white flowers, and chalky minerality. Medium-bodied, pure, layered, with elegant acidity.” – Jeb Dunnuck, 96 Points & Top 100 wines of the Year 2024

“Macadamia oak notes are accompanied by some struck-match reduction, adding a smoky touch. Only medium bodied, there’s no excess weight or alcohol here; it’s fresh, with marked acidity. This is a wine with serious intensity, salinity and length. It’s currently quite tight due to the oak work, which is dominating the nose, too. That should harmonise within a few years to create a regal style of Châteauneuf. Fermented then aged in old barriques. Just 1,600 bottles made.” – Decanter, 97 Points

Grape: 60% Clairette, 20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Roussanne