Alain Grangeon Cuvee Tradition Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2009

There are literally generations of skill, knowledge and tradition in this bottle as well as a jolly tasty drop that would knock many a white Châteauneuf into touch.
Alain Grangeon is a venerable old wine producer in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the patron at Cristia a much-vaunted estate.
The southern Rhône has always held the fascination of wine lovers. It is perhaps largely because the styles are hugely diverse and absolutely world class.

Using the same kind of blend as white Chateauneuf-du-Papes this wine is super-rich and lush with peach, pear and melon flavours and a lovely, creamy nature. There's a little bit of honey and beeswax thrown in too. It is decadent enough to be drunk on its own and interesting enough to wash down light, spicy oriental fare. If you are not familiar with the unique whites of the southern Rhône, this is a great place to start.