2023 E. Guigal Cotes-du-Rhone Blanc, Northern Rhone

Orange blossom, spice, and honeyed stone fruits all emerge from the 2023 Cotes Du Rhône Blanc. Based on 60% Viognier, 15% Roussanne, 10% Marsanne, and 8% Clairette, with the rest Bourboulenc and Grenache Blanc, it offers medium-bodied richness, beautiful purity, and an elegant, balanced style. Brought up all in stainless steel, it is best enjoyed over the coming 2-3 years. Drink 2025-2028.

90 points jebdunnuck.com

E. Guigal Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc is one of the quiet achievers of the Rhône Valley — a beautifully textured, aromatic white that overdelivers in both character and charm. While Guigal is best known for their powerhouse reds from Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, this white blend is a masterclass in balance and subtlety, showing that the northern edge of the southern Rhône can produce whites with both freshness and generosity.

The blend is led by Viognier, which brings floral lift and stone fruit, supported by Roussanne, Marsanne, Clairette and Bourboulenc. Fruit is sourced from high-altitude vineyards with limestone soils, which help preserve acidity and tension. Fermentation and ageing take place in stainless steel to keep things bright and pure, with no oak influence.

You’ll find aromas of white peach, apricot, honeysuckle and citrus blossom, with a faint herbal thread underneath. The palate is soft and rounded, but not heavy — think ripe pear, lemon curd, a touch of almond, and a chalky finish that keeps it mouthwatering. There’s just enough weight to hold its own at the table, but it’s also refreshing enough to enjoy as a standalone aperitif.

Food pairing: ideal with roast chicken and herbs, Provençal seafood stew, grilled zucchini with feta, or a niçoise salad. Also excellent with mild goat cheese or a creamy shellfish pasta.

Cellar potential: best enjoyed young and vibrant, but will hold its shape for 2 to 4 years.