Located near Avignon, the Bonpas winery was founded in 1318. Originally a Carthusian monastery, the name "Bonpas" loosely translates to "safe passage," and refers to its historic role as a vital passage on the ancient route between Rome and Avignon.
All history aside, they make a delightful white wine from the lesser-known Luberon AOC in Provence. A classic Mediterranean blend of Rolle (Vermentino), Grenache Blanc, and Ugni Blanc, this outclasses a lot of White Chateauneufs (I'm not kidding), but it comes to you at a fraction of the price.
That might sound too good to be true, but I just call it like I taste it, and I think the new vintage is every bit as good as the 95-point-rated (Decanter) 2024 was, and I get similar tasting notes:
"Laden with appetizing green apples, bright peaches and a dazzlingly saline tang. Vivacious and grippy; the bright acidity is sustained right to the finish." - Decanter on the 2024.
Brought up entirely in stainless steel tanks, with extended lees aging adding nice texture and complexity, this is so good. I got into a bottle last night, and it tastes like sunshine in a bottle. Gorgeous aromas of apricot, mango, white peach, and honeysuckle lead into a fresh, crisp, and vivacious palate.
Drinking this brought back fond memories of a trip I took to the Southern Rhone and Provence several years back. This was the kind of white we enjoyed with fresh seafood, local vegetables, or with nothing at all, as the sun went down over the Mediterranean.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
