Château Puech-Haut Blanc Tête de Bélier 2018

A barrel-fermented and aged blend of 40% Viognier with 30% each Marsanne and Roussanne, the 2018 Languedoc Tête de Bélier Blanc is smoky on the nose, with scents of grilled stone fruit and pineapple. It's medium to full-bodied, plump and round in the mouth, then boasts hints of citrus pith on the silky, lingering finish.

Based on 40% Viognier and 30% each of Marsanne and Roussanne that was fermented and aged in barrel, the 2018 Tete De Belier Blanc offers a rich yet pure and vibrant bouquet of apricots, white flowers, honeysuckle, brioche, and caramelized pineapple. It's beautifully done, medium to full-bodied, has both richness and freshness, and a great finish. It's a brilliant white that reminds me slightly of a Condrieu from the likes of Andre Perret. Drink it over the coming year or three.