Hermitage White

Soil type

Limestone, sand and gravel.

Grape variety

95% Marsanne, 5% Roussanne.

Average age of vines

30 to 90 years.

Winemaking

Temperature controlled fermentation at 16 to 18°C.

Ageing

Long ageing in second wine oak.

Average yield

37 Hl / hectare.

Average annual production

20.000 bottles.

Tasting

Eye : Consistent straw yellow.
Nose : Complex nose with dominant floral vegetal notes and acacia honey. Elegant and delicate oak.
Palate : Spicy with good structure. A wine for ageing.
Overall : Overall balance and with deep complex aromas characteristic of these rare white wines.

Vintages 2006

 

Wine Advocate # 193 - Feb 2011

Score : 91

The 2006 Hermitage Blanc (93% Marsanne and 7% Roussanne) exhibits the tell-tale acacia flower, quince and currant notes intermixed with a hint of flint, good acidity, and a full-bodied, powerful finish. All neutral wood is utilized and there is not a hint of oak in this cuvee. It is difficult to estimate how long a white Hermitage will age. Some last 50-100 years and others oxidize between ages 5-15. But, as Thomas Jefferson said, these can be the greatest dry white wines of France. Robert Parker.

 

Wine Spectator - Jun 30, 2009

Score: 93

Powerful, with a broad, buttery feel up front that lets creamed melon and peach flavors carry through. This has a big, rounded feel, with a whiff of macadamia nut. Very long and enticing on the finish. Marsanne and Roussanne. Drink now through 2011. 1,665 cases made.  James Molesworth.


Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar - Jan/Feb 10 

Score : 91

Yellow-gold. Pungent aromas of poached pear, peach pit and honey, with a smoky undertone. Full-bodied and pliant, offering rich pit fruit flavors and notes of anise and herbs. Possesses the depth and texture of a red wine, and finishes with strong grip and an echo of smoky minerals. This big boy could stand up to a rich poultry or veal dish. Josh Raynolds.

Consumption

A boire/à garder

Serving temperature

10°C to 12°C

Ageing potential

Around 10 years.

Food and wine matching

Spicy starters, fish, garlicky dishes and cheese.
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