2013 Domaine Lafage "Cuvée Centenaire" Côtes-du-Roussillon Blanc

Moving to the Domaine Lafage releases, and a year-in, year-out, incredible value, the 2013 Cotes du Roussillon Centenaire Blanc comes from 100-year-old Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris vines (with some Roussanne) that grow within sight of the Mediterranean Sea. Just bottled, but certainly no worse for it, it exhibits beautiful minerality along with a white currant, citrus blossom and melon-nuanced bouquet. Pure, elegant and classically styled, with building richness and plenty of focus on the palate, it has to be one of the best values in white wine in the world today. Don’t miss it! Run by the talented (and fast driving) Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage, from their cellar located just outside of Perpignan (which is being completely renovated), this estate includes vineyards spread throughout the Roussillon, allowing them to make the most of the diverse terroirs and micro-climates. I struggle to think of another portfolio that encompasses anywhere close to this level of value, and the average quality to price (QPR) for these wines is just hard to believe. I’ve included the Chateau Saint Roch and Saint Roch (mostly Maury-basedbased) releases here as well, as they’re made at the estate and were part of the tasting I had with Jean-Marc. www.domaine-lafage.com (JD)