One-third each Bourboulenc, Clairette and Grenache Blanc and partly barrel fermented, the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine Blanc features an understated nose of mixed citrus. It's medium to full-bodied with a gently silky feel and relatively crisp acids.

The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine Blanc is 80% Grenache Blanc and 20% Clairette, fermented and matured in stainless steel. Boasting hints of tangerine and lime on the nose, it's a medium to full-bodied wine with a silky texture that turns zesty and refreshing on the finish. It should be ready to drink on release and over the next few years.

Looking back through the database, the blend for this bottling has varied a bit over time. The 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine Blanc is Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Bourboulenc. It fermented in old foudres and stayed on the lees for eight months. The result is a medium to full-bodied mix of pineapple and lime, with a briny, richly textured finish. It should drink well for a few years, maybe even longer, although I'm reluctant to recommend extended cellaring for most whites from the Southern Rh?ne.

The 2014 Chateauneuf du Pape la Bernardine Blanc is an outstanding blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Roussanne that was raised in 30% demi-muids. It offers lots of mint, currants, apple and floral notes in a medium-bodied, lively, crisp, yet balanced and lengthy style on the palate. Drink it over the coming 3-4 years.

The 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc La Bernardine is a blend of Grenache and Roussanne that offers up classy, elegant aromas and flavors (white peach, white currants, creme and mineral), medium to full-bodied richness and a layered, seamless feel on the palate. Possessing beautifully integrated acidity, it’s a superb white to drink over the coming 3-4 years. Drink now-2017. While more known for his top-flight Northern Rhone efforts, Michel Chapoutier produces a bevy of brilliant Chateauneuf du Papes, as well as a number of high quality, value-priced wines from throughout the Southern Rhone (and Languedoc).Looking first at his Marius wines, these are straightforward, yet impressively made wines that offer easy-drinking. They also sell for a song and over-deliver. As to his Chateauneufs, he normally releases three cuvees, the La Bernardine being a blend and the Croix de Bois and Barbe Rac both single vineyard, 100% Grenache releases. Both 2011 and 2012 are strong here. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900