E. Guigal Hermitage Blanc 2019 750ml

I loved the 2019 Hermitage Blanc, another impeccably made white from this team. Medium to full-bodied, pure, and even elegant, yet still with plenty of oomph, it has brilliant notes of quince, crushed stone, acacia flowers, and spice. Despite coming from a warmer (hot) vintage, this has notable purity and freshness. Drink it over the coming 10-12 years or so (it will keep longer).

• Country: France
• Region: Rhone Valley
• Appellation: Hermitage
• Size: 750ml
• Color: White
• Alcohol by Vol: 14.0%

Varietal

White Rhone Blend

Rhone white blend wines, originating from France’s Rhone Valley, exemplify a captivating interplay of grape varieties that contribute to their unique character. Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc are key players in these blends, each bringing distinct aromas and flavors. What makes Rhone white blends unique is their aromatic complexity, offering a spectrum from floral and stone fruit notes to honeyed richness.

The Northern Rhone produces exquisite whites like Condrieu, where Viognier takes center stage, delivering floral and apricot nuances. In the Southern Rhone, blends such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc showcase a harmonious mix of Marsanne, Roussanne, and other varieties, resulting in wines with depth and structure.

Rhone white blends are celebrated for their ability to evolve with age, displaying increased complexity. Whether enjoyed in their youth for their freshness or aged for added richness, these wines invite enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry of blending and the diverse terroirs that define the Rhone Valley’s winemaking landscape.