2023 Aphillanthes Côtes du Rhône Blanc 'Clementia', Rhone Valley, France

Considered a rising star of the southern Rhône, this biodynamic domaine is located just northwest of Gigondas; This is his white Cotes du Rhone, a blend of Viognier, Roussanne, and Clairette. It is highly aromatic and full-flavored, it shows apples and chamomile on the nose backed up by flavors of pear, bergamot, hints of limestone, and just enough acidity for a crisp finish. A lovely rich wine, with depth, complexity and character.

Not far from Gigondas in the Rhône valley, Domaine Les Aphillanthes is a 60 hectares wine estate currently run by Daniel Boulle and his wife Hélène, spread across three local towns including Cairanne.

As fourth generation winemakers, they took over the estate in 1987 and started producing their own cuvee from grapes that until that time had been sold to the coopérative. In 2000 after treating their son's bad exzema with natural remedies, they decided to switch to Biodynamic principles. Roll the clock forward and they are now making outstanding natural Cotes du Rhone, both red and white and rose.