INSIDER'S PICK: 2022 LE CAILLOU COTES DU RHONE BLANC $19.99

Looks like Winter weather has FINALLY decided to skip working hard on a Thursday, so we're able to get an Insider's Pick out for you. White Rhone wines are getting fewer and farther between these days. The red grapes are easier to grow and a bit more profitable, so many new or replanted vineyards are converting mostly if not wholly away from the white varieties. The nice silver lining is that when you do find a standout, they tend to be really well done and usually have some nicely mature vines that stay consistent from vintage to vintage. Clos du Caillou is an historic estate with most of their Cotes du Rhone vineyards pressed right against the borders of Chateauneuf, and also are connected to the diversity of the region, making a broad spectrum of both red and white wines. The vines here are of very similar age to the ones making their white Chateauneuf, as well as a similar blend, with this being tank aged instead of barrique aged. The blend of White Grenache, Viognier and Clairette (some vintages will see a splash of Roussanne from their Chateauneuf vineyards) is classic, fresh and floral with a bit of unctuous texture. Initial flowery hits from the Viognier turn towards zesty green citrus and apple notes, with lots of natural weight on the palate at first, then picking up the citrusy minerality to give a juicy mouthwatering finish that lingers impressively. A wine begging for foods to help elevate, like Spring salads or delicate fish dishes.

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