2016 Château Henri Bonnaud Palette Quintessence

Community Tasting Notes (1) Avg Score: 89.5 points

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  5/30/2020 - forceberry wrote: 90 Points

  A blend of organically farmed Clairette Blanche, Clairette Rosé and Ugni Blanc. Fermented and aged for 8 months in oak barrels. 13% alcohol.
  
  Pale straw yellow color. A dry, somewhat smoky, slightly reductive nose reminding me of a modern, fresh Aussie Chardonnay. Aromas of flint smoke, some fresh pineapple, a little bit of ripe red apple and a hint of savory wood spice. The wine is ripe, juicy and moderately full-bodied on the palate with complex flavors of pineapple, chopped nuts, gunpowder smoke, some toasty notes, a little bit of sweet apricot, light golden apple tones, a hint of creaminess and a touch of tropical fruits. Has a somewhat white Mâconnais feel to it with its ripe yellow-toned fruit and judicious use of oak. The medium-plus acidity keeps the balance nicely in check. The finish is ripe, juicy and quite rich with flavors of red apples, some flint smoke, a little bit of nutty oak, light pineapple tones, a hint of ripe citrus fruits and a touch of powdered ammonium chloride (aka. salty liquorice).
  
  A very balanced, harmonious and tasty Palette Blanc. Lacking the richness and complexity of Simone Palette Blanc 2016 that was tasted alongside, but shows more sense of freshness, structure and focus. Quite enjoyable and harmonious effort for a Provencal white; most likely will continue to improve for many years more.

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