“A really quite superb dry white Bordeaux.” - Vinous, 92 points

If this were a New World wine, the front label would helpfully describe it as a ‘Barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc’, but not the French, oh no. All they are prepared to divulge is the identity of the chateau and the name of appellation and from that one is supposed to deduce, through birthright, that it was made from Sauvignon Blanc and fermented and aged in oak barrels. So, unless you are among the initiated, you might be inclined to think that this is just a simple, unoaked white Bordeaux, but not so! This is much more involved than those easy-quaffing, peachy whites that proliferate in Bordeaux, this is dry and silky in texture, rich yet alive, with wonderfully complex flavours of lime cordial, thatch, hazelnut and wild honey. A fine wine for white tablecloth dining. 13% alc. Drink now-2027.

Press review:

Vinous: “The Chateau de Rochemorin Blanc 2020 has a lively nose with lime, freshly-sliced pear, orange pith and just a faint hint of elderflower. This is quite complex. The palate is well-balanced with a welcome sour lemon note on the entry, fine weight and superb tension. This has developed nicely in barrel and it now represents a really quite superb dry white Bordeaux. Drink now-2033.” 92 points

The Wine Advocate: “The 2020 de Rochemorin Blanc delivers a good intensity of fresh pear, yellow apple and straw scents with underlying hints of baking bread and honeysuckle. The medium-bodied palate reveals a touch of new oak, complementing the apple and allspice flavors, finishing with a lively acid burst. Drink now-2028.” (88-90) points