Gascony is one of the great undiscovered wine regions of France — a vast, sun-drenched landscape in the south-west, better known for its Armagnac and its foie gras than for its wines, and yet producing white wines of a freshness, vibrancy, and aromatic character that are among the most immediately appealing in the country. Domaine de Papolle is one of Gascony’s most respected and characterful estates, farming their vineyards with a dedication to quality that is evident in every glass. The Côtes de Gascogne Blanc is a classic Gascon blend of Colombard and Sauvignon Blanc — two grapes that complement each other beautifully in this warm, sunny climate, with Colombard bringing its natural freshness and tropical fruit character and Sauvignon Blanc adding a crisp, aromatic lift and a lovely citrus precision. The 2024 is a beautifully expressive white: tropical fruit and delicate floral notes on the nose that are inviting and aromatic, with white fruit and mango on the palate that are generous and ripe, underpinned by a lovely mineral backbone that gives the wine a focus and structure that sets it apart from simpler southern French whites. The finish is clean and refreshing, with a lovely citrus and mineral precision that lingers with real elegance. At £11.99, it is Gascony at its most charming and complete.