2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Domaine des Saumades, Rhône

Grenache Blanc is a white grape variety closely related to the more widely known red grape, Grenache Noir (or Grenache). It is believed to have originated in Spain, specifically in the Catalonia region, but it has spread to many wine-producing areas worldwide.

The largest and most important appellation in the southern Rhône, with more than 3,200 hectares of vineyards and over 80 growers, Châteauneuf-du-Pape produces more wine than the whole of the northern Rhône combined. The gloriously rich red wines, redolent of the heat and herbs of the south, are enhanced by the complexity which comes from blending several of the 14 permitted grape varieties including Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah.

Four generations of Moussets have been winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, in 1995, Frank Mousset, whose day job is at another winery with his brother-in-law, was approached to buy a 2.5-hectare parcel in the Pignan lieu-dit, beside Château Rayas. Franck and wife Murielle, then opened Domaine des Saumades, only making wine here.