This California white wine is a blend of 68% Rousanne, 27% Grenache Blanc, and 5% Viognier.  The vines from which the grapes were harvested were clones of plants from the real Chateau Beaucastel vineyard in the Rhone River Valley of France (Chataneuf du Pape).  The clones were brought here, planted in Paso Robles, and voila!  French Rhone wines grown right here in California.  This is a great white wine for those who are tired of Chardonnay and don't care for Sauvignon Blanc.  The wine has a medium gold color, an aromatic nose of honey, clove, and light spices.  The wine is farily full bodied for a white wine, and has a fairly earthy, minerally dry approach on the palate with apricot and dried apples as the predominant flavors.  The wine finishes smooth and long.  Although I am not usually a white wine lover, this wine ranks near the top of my list for favorite white wines.  Those who dislike California Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc owe it to themselves to try this Rhone style white wine.  It will pair well with Provencal cuisine, and Italian food with white sauces and pesto.

3.5 stars  Retail price about 25 dollars.  Purchased 375ml "half bottle" at Harvest Ranch Market in Del Mar for $13.99

 

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