Hermitage, Blanc, 2009

A glorious 100% barrel-fermented Marsanne from a parcel in the clay limestone Maison Blanche vineyard planted in 1944. This has real “gras”, a richness and presence, there is plenty of fat and ripe fruit here but without compromising the wine’s balance. Notes of white flower, red peach, mango, white flower peach, an almost tannic fruit intensity, hints of roasted nut too but not heavily oaky with a fine long, vibrant and cleansing finish.