E. Guigal Hermitage Blanc 2018

E. Guigal Hermitage Blanc is a white from the northern Rhone, made by Domaine E. Guigal from Marsanne with a little Roussanne. Guigal, based at Ampuis and now in its third generation, is one of the reference names of the region. The vines grow on the steep granite hill of Hermitage, a warm, well drained site where poor soils and old vines give low yields and concentrated fruit. Marsanne brings weight, orchard fruit and a waxy, honeyed character, while Roussanne adds perfume and freshness. The wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels, which through slow oxygen exchange build texture and a toasted, nutty complexity, while lees contact adds a creamy weight. This is a full bodied white made to develop in bottle over many years. Expect a deep gold colour and an intricate nose of white peach, acacia honey and white flowers over a woody, herbaceous base. The palate is dry, rich and structured, with stone fruit, almond, a savoury mineral streak and a long, toasted finish. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a large glass, and decant a young bottle.