WTN: `08 Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine Blanc, Lirac.

This previous note was posted two years ago.

13.5% alc, $22 Cdn, synthetic cork, L 3209. "Vigneron independant" on the foil. 60% Grenache blanc, 20% Viognier, 10% Roussanne.

The color is a medium to deep straw, no green. On the nose, great aromatics with spice, floral, mountainside herbs, pear. Very appealing forumites.
Initial entry thoughts were dry-ish, herbal with a savoury finish. Not sure how typical this Lirac white is? Great acidity and did not find any bitterness. I am a big fan of S France whites, this one is great!

So to celebrate a snowless day, thought I would open my last bottle of the fine `08.

Color is a light yellow-gold. Nose seems a tad faded now but still some spice and floral..."apple and melon" from across the table. Might develope into something give it time?
Initial entry on the palate shows some ripeness, lowish acidity. some spice, white stone-fruit, but not that distinct. Lighter now, minerality not so prominent. "Smooth length, not bad". Seems to liven up as it airs, perhaps I served too chilled? Apricot, no bitterness. Will cook some pork tenderloin and report back!

2008 was an awkward year for S.Rhône but when they got it right I liked them a lot, especially the whites for their greater than usual acidity and freshness. However, as I think you found, the fourth year is pushing it for most of their whites though some growers claim that theirs develop special qualities with some ageing. I've yet to be convinced even by aged white Châteauneuf du Pape, with the honorable exception of Beaucastel.

White CdP? There is one wine I have a hard time with Tim.

Me, too.