E. Guigal White Rhone Blend St. Joseph Lieu-Dit St. Joseph Blanc 2011

Followers of the GUIGAL C tes-du-Rh ne will enjoy this wine which flatters as much as its famous red cousin!

The 2009 and 2010 Cotes du Rhone Blancs are blends of 55% Viognier and the rest Roussanne, Marsanne, Clairette and Bourboulenc, all aged in tank. While there are multiple bottlings given the massive production, they are consistent from bottling to bottling. The freshness, exotic tropical fruits, fragrant bouquets, dry, fleshy mid-palates and crisp finishes of these wines will be admired by consumers. These wines over-deliver in every sense, and they should drink well for several years.

Light gold. Floral, spicy citrus and peach scents, with a dusty mineral accent. Clean and brisk, showing a juicy quality and ripe nectarine and peach flavors. Quite complex for the category.

The 2005 Cotes du Rhone Blanc reveals the exotic fruit of Viognier, but with good acidity and body. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.

Pale yellow. Melon, nectarine and honeysuckle on the nose, with notes of anise and white pepper adding complexity. Gains sweetness with air and offers pliant honeydew and orchard fruit flavors, with a touch of spice on the back half. I like this wine's complexity and finishing sappiness.

Guigal's Cotes du Rhone blanc has gone from strength to strength over recent vintages, largely because he now uses at least 50% Viognier in the blend. The 2003 (primarily Roussanne and Viognier) possesses good body as well as abundant fruit, texture, and fat.

The 1999 Côtes du Rhône Blanc reveals an increased emphasis on blending with large quantities of Viognier (40%). It is a medium-bodied, dry, tasty offering with a straightforward but alluring nose of honeysuckle and peach as well as excellent purity. Consume it over the next 1-2 years.