2021 Domaine de Cristia Collection Cuvée Tradition Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc

Most of Châteauneuf-du-Pape grows on galets, the big round stones the appellation is known for. Cristia's vineyards are 90 percent sand, on the east side of the appellation in Courthezon. They face northeast, which keeps the fruit fresh, and that matters even more for a white from one of the warmest corners of France.

The Grangeon family started here in 1942 with two hectares and sold everything to negociants. In 1999 Baptiste Grangeon took over and began bottling under the Cristia name. He runs it today with his sister, Dominique. The vineyards have been certified organic since the 2008 vintage.

Only a small slice of Châteauneuf is white, and this one leans on Clairette: 80 percent, with 20 percent Roussanne. It spends six months in demi-muids, big neutral barrels that add texture without covering up the fruit. Ripe peach, honeyed orange, pear and honeysuckle lead, on a round, layered palate with enough acidity to keep it lively.

It's drinking beautifully now. I'd pour it on a weeknight with roast chicken or seared scallops, lightly chilled rather than ice cold.

Rhône is a Valley where magic happens; where winemaking has been woven into the fabric of the land for centuries. Originally established by the Greeks in the 5th century B.C., these vineyards hold a rich heritage. The Romans, recognizing the region's potential, nurtured the vineyards over many centuries, utilizing the Rhone River as a vital trade route for their prized wines. However, the region faced adversity during the collapse of the Roman Empire, halting its commercial growth. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Rhône Valley's wines experienced a renaissance in the 14th century, courtesy of the Papacy. The ecclesiastical influence revived economic growth and set the stage for the region's viticultural prominence.

Today, the wines from Châteauneuf-du-Pape in Rhone, are recognized for their unique character and exceptional quality, with Robert Parker calling it "one of the world's most prestigious appellations."