E. Guigal

Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2018

Crozes-Hermitage

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Crozes-Hermitage is the “entry” appellation to the Northern Rhône Valley, but there are very clearly quality vineyard sites that can produce wines of appealing complexity and depth. While not much Crozes-Hermitage white is produced, Guigal has become the most important producer of white wine in the Rhône Valley, and from their vineyards and in their hands, Crozes displays an expressiveness and brightness while also capturing the warmth of the area. Explosive and exotic floral and fruit aromas and flavors meld with intense mineral notes, and the silky, powerful concentration of flavors has an appealing roundness that finishes remarkably fresh.

Vineyard

Vineyards are from the Guigal estate holdings, with vines averaging 25 years of age and planted on soils of clay silt and sand and gravel. Yields are low at 2.1 tons per acre. It’s important to note that most of Crozes-Hermitage is produced from the plains to the south and east of Hermitage, and these wines tend to be straightforward. Guigal’s approach is to make a more serious Crozes that while maintaining its approachability, has vigor, intensity and depth.

Winemaking

The 95% Marsanne and 5% Roussanne wine was aged for 12 months, in stainless steel and a part in second use oak on the lees.

Vintage

Tasting Note

Golden, with aromas of white flowers and acacia, and delicate notes of oak. Fine and elegant on the palate, with a full body, and lovely richness. Wonderful freshness, balancing finesse and richness.

Color

White

Grape Varieties

Marsanne, Roussanne

Appellation

Crozes-Hermitage

Suggested Retail Price

$33.00

Reviews

“Fresh and rounded"

Wine Spectator - January 14, 2021 “Fresh and rounded in feel, with melon, pear and heather honey notes backed by a lemon curd hint on the finish. Bring on the langoustines and saffron aïoli."

"Dry, elegant white"

Wine Enthusiast - July 6, 2021

"Composed of 95% Marsanne and 5% Roussanne matured 12 months in stainless steel and seasoned oak, this pear-scented dry white offers ripe grapefruit and yellow-apple flavors with a steely mineral spine. Medium bodied but voluminous in texture, it’s a dry, elegant white that lingers on a honeycomb finish. At peak now through 2026, the wine can hold longer still." - A.I.

Wine Enthusiast - September 29, 2023

Text to follow Dec 2023 Issue

 

Trade Materials

Other Wines by this Producer

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Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

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