2011 Michel Gassier "Nostre Pais Blanc" Costières de Nîmes Blanc

I know some readers will find it hard to believe, but the 2011 Nostre Pais Blanc’s aromas and rich, honeyed, full-bodied texture reminded me of the famous white Chateauneuf du Pape made by Beaucastel, which sells for three or more times the price. An amazing blend of 90% Grenache Blanc, 5% Roussanne and 5% Viognier aged six months in French oak, the Roussanne component jumps from the glass, offering notes of acacia flowers, honeysuckle, white peach, quince and pineapple. The flamboyant, intense aromatics are followed by a full-bodied, exuberant, dry white wine that must be tasted to be believed. I suspect this offering has some aging potential, but why risk it given how beautiful it is showing at present. I recommend consuming it over the next several years.