Ermitage Blanc 2014

Terroir: Over centuries, this mythical cru has built its reputation on a single hill, and an epic history. Sheltered from northerly winds, most of the hillsides are south-facing and receive good exposure to the sun while enjoying a Mediterranean climate.

The harmony between the soils and the sun exposure allows the syrah varietal to express its strength perfectly. This balance is also reflected in the tannins that oscillate between strength and finesse. The wines from the Hermitage hill can be spelled with or without the “H”. Philippe and Vincent made the choice to not use the “H” because “Ermitage” is the original spelling of the appellation. The Hermitage hill is home to numerous parcels, planted on steep slopes and often on terraces. This Ermitage white is particular because it is made 100% from the Roussanne grape. There is no Marsanne. Roussanne is named after its ripe skin color, a reddish-gold pigment that equates to the French word Roux (red-brown). The variety is thought to have originated in the northern Rhône Valley, where the majority of modern day plantings are found because it benefits from the warm temperatures and long sunlight hours it needs to achieve full maturity.

It is made entirely from estate-grown grapes, like all the wines produced by the estate. The average age of the vines is 40 years. They benefit from South exposure and are planted on soil made of loess, in two lieu-dits, “Maison Blanche” and “Les Beaumes”.

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