When the Rhône region is mentioned, most minds immediately drift to its red wines. While whites may hold a smaller presence, constituting only about 10% of the vineyard area, they echo a similar proportion in our local scene. Despite their minority status, white wines receive equal diligence and devotion as their red counterparts.

Beyond the popular Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne varieties that many enthusiasts are familiar with and which are also found in the northern Rhône Valley, there are other commendable and captivating grape varieties.

The Clairette grape stands out. Renowned for its aromatic bouquet of floral, fennel, and linden notes, it boasts a delightful bitterness, grace, and unparalleled ability to age gracefully. This varietal holds historical roots in the southern Rhône, thriving in its hot, dry climate, and is adept at prospering in less fertile soils while displaying commendable disease resistance. This makes Clairette a vintner's treasure, especially given its versatility in producing outstanding dry, sweet, or sparkling wines. At Xavier Vignon, its aromatic richness, crisp, saline undertones, and synergy with other white grapes are deeply valued.

Bourboulenc is another gem. It wears its Provençal roots proudly. Likely related to the gouais blanc and cultivated since the Gallo-Roman times, this resilient grape variety thrives in the heat and prefers low-altitude terrains. Though not particularly aromatic, its subtle nature is its strength, complementing its more flamboyant peers. Its elegance, floral notes, and lower alcohol content make it a favorite blending partner, especially with viognier, white grenache, or Clairette. Maturing slowly and harvested late, it retains good acidity and a pleasing sugar concentration.

White Grenache has an intriguing backstory. JLikeits relative, the black grenache, the white variant hails from Spain, specifically from the Aragon region. Legend has it that pilgrims returning from Santiago de Compostela brought it with them. The grape then spread along the Mediterranean coasts, reaching as far as Sardinia. In its white form, it exhibits resilience, especially in drought conditions, presenting a full-bodied and juicy palate with a lush structure. Its sugar richness also allows for the production of fortified sweet wines, like those from Rasteau or Rivesaltes.

This grape variety features prominently in our 'White Cuvée Anonyme – 2022 Châteauneuf du Pape, comprising 45% white grenache, harmoniously balanced with Roussanne and Clairette.