Ogier, with a history dating back to the late 19th century, is among the absolute top producers in Châteauneuf-du-Papes. The area around the village of Châteauneuf-du-Papes has been the summer residence of the popes since the 15th century, and the monasteries were important for the development of the vineyards and wine production in the region. The Ogier cellar is the oldest and one of the largest in the Rhône Valley. Le Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes is one of two Ogier vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The vineyard covers 25 hectares with characteristic soils of limestone, sand, and red clay under a layer of rounded pebbles. The grape varieties are the historic ones for the region: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvedre for red wine, and Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, and Bourboulenc for white wine.
This Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes Blanc is a blend of 30 percent Grenache Blanc, 30 percent Clairette, 30 percent Roussanne, and 10 percent Bourbalenc. The Rousanne is barrel-fermented and then aged on its lees for four months, while the other grapes are fermented in stainless steel. The wine is aged for eight to twelve months in thirty-year-old oak barrels. The result is impressive. Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes is an inviting wine, exemplified by the French's true sense of taste. On the nose, we detected white stone fruit, licorice, and wildflowers. The palate is round and very refined, with a lovely thick structure and ripe flavors of peach, melon, apricot, and vanilla. On the back of the palate, this Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes has a touch of freshness and intensity. It's no wonder this wine has received numerous awards from the international wine press.
