This pale gold Viognier is essentially dry but has such an incredibly exotic perfume you'd think it was sweet. The nose is an instant "hit" of apricots and fresh fruit tree blossom. The mouth is a beguiling blend of fatness, freshness and finesse that produces an elegant, peachy-apricot coolness of fruit on the finish. Be warned this is heady stuff. "The investments made in the vineyards and cellars, as well as Cheze's philosophical commitment to producing special wines are evident. All ... represent excellent values." (Wine Advocate, February 2001)

White Châteauneuf is not that well known, which is a shame is some ways - but then again it is all the better news for those of us lucky enough to track down a bottle from a producer like La Nerthe. As a rule in modern times the wines have a delightful combination of spice, flowers and citrus fruit. They retain their power but are opulently rich and exotic with a fresher, crisper finish. No change with this example ... an almost oily unctuous nose proceeds full flavours of citrus and stone fruit ... sublime balance and length.