Chapoutier - Ermitage - De L'orée - Blanc - 2002

Wine:

A 100% Marsanne from the Les Murets vineyard, the 2002 white Hermitage De L'Orée is rich and expressive, with an elegant palate and a well-balanced, vibrant juice, and a long, savory, bitter finish.

Vinification:

Hand harvested. Vines aged 60 to 70 years.
Pressing followed by cold settling of the must for approximately 24 hours. About 50% fermented in demi-muids with regular stirring of the lees, the remainder in vats.
Aged on lees in oak barrels for 10 to 12 months, with frequent tastings and regular stirring of the lees for 6 months.

Color:

Bright golden yellow.

Nose:

Highly intense aromas of caramel and lemon, mixed with floral notes of acacia and hawthorn.

Palate:

Full-bodied and complex, with sparkling fruit, this beautifully mature wine has good length and a fresh finish.

Temperature:

Serve between 10 and 12°C

Food and wine pairing:

Veal Orloff, poularde à la crème, lobster au beurre blanc, Saint-Félicien with truffles.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2040, and even longer for enthusiasts.

Michel Chapoutier is the undisputed star of the Rhône Valley, with a phenomenal catalog of vintages to his name. An outstanding ambassador and pioneer of biodynamic viticulture, driven by a vision of great wine, this instinctive winemaker is recognized worldwide. His wines are absolutely consistent, delivering the most accomplished expressions of their respective terroirs. 

Particularly in Hermitage, his terroir of choice, where he makes anthology plot-based wines using biodynamic methods. Summum of complexity and refinement, made for aging, they remain without equal.

Produced in limited, highly-rated quantities, these wines are very difficult to access...