2019 Chateau Simone Palette Blanc

The white from Simone is a truly unique, magical creation based primarily on Clairette that is supplemented with Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Ugni Blanc and a touch of Muscat Blanc. It can be described as a chameleonic hybrid of white Burgundy and J.L. Chave Hermitage Blanc with a splash of López de Heredia Blanco! Upon opening, it’s quite reserved, showing hints of oxidized yellow apple, lemon verbena, resin, and salt-preserved lemon with smoky richness and waxy green fruits on the palate. On day two, the fireworks kick in full gear as the wine evolves slowly into a sensual masterpiece. Now it’s Burgundian face begins to emerge, showing leesy, toasty orchard fruits and citrus on a powerful backbone of crushed limestone with a lingering finish built on a mass of minerality. Kaleidoscopic and evocative, this is a remarkably age-worthy wine with the potential to deliver immense pleasure over the next two decades plus.