Domaine de Marcoux is run by the Armenier sisters, Catherine and Sophie. Their family roots in Châteauneuf-du-Pape stretch back to the 13th-century but the domaine is a relatively new one, founded in 1989, though from vineyards that had been in the family for generations. Domaine de Marcoux pioneered organic and biodynamic farming in the region long before it was fashionable. They farm 18 hectares in CdP of some of the regions’ greatest vineyards. The vines are grenache, primarily, with an average vine age of 50 years, but there are also portions of mourvèdre, syrah, cinsault, roussanne, bourboulenc, clairette, and grenache blanc. The resulting wines have a pastoral quiet to them suffused with the gorgeous and rich aromas of summer fields.

This is the smallest cuvée the sisters produce, from just under a hectare of vines. The vintage ended up with 70% roussanne and the remainder bourboulenc. The grapes are hand harvested and ferment in tank. The wine ages partially in larger oak barrel and also stainless which is then blended together prior to bottling. This wine shows with smoke wisping up through crushed rock, toasted hazelnuts over a central column of white peaches and fresh lime. The finish is crisp and long.

“I always love the white from this estate, and their 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc is another winner….Worth a case purchase…” 94pts Jeb Dunnuck