Hermitage Chante-Alouette is a benchmark example of 100% Marsanne from the renowned granite slopes of the Hermitage appellation in the Northern Rhone. Produced by the acclaimed M. Chapoutier estate, this wine embodies the finesse and complexity for which the region's whites are celebrated. The grapes are hand-harvested from three meticulously selected parcels-Le Meal, Les Murets, and Chante-Alouette-each contributing distinctive characteristics to the final blend. Meticulous winemaking, including gentle pressing, a mix of stainless steel and demi-muid fermentation, and thoughtful ageing on lees, delivers a wine of striking elegance, textural richness, and vibrant freshness. Hermitage Chante-Alouette pairs beautifully with an array of foods, from delicate fish dishes and poultry in sauces to artisan cheeses, including goats cheese and blue cheese.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Pouring a luminous golden yellow in the glass, Hermitage Chante-Alouette captivates with its clarity and inviting gleam, hinting at the wine's depth and concentration.
Nose:
The bouquet is complex yet subtle, offering a harmonious medley of quince, ripe walnut, and delicate honey. Underlying notes of ginger, acacia blossom, and a hint of linden-tree perfume add aromatic complexity and an enticing floral lift. There is a refined, minerally thread that speaks of its unique terroir.
Palate:
On the palate, the wine is remarkably elegant, displaying supple layers and a polished texture. The initial impression is of ripe orchard fruits complemented by honeyed nuances, underpinned by stony minerality and a gentle savoury touch. Marsanne's signature richness is balanced by lively acidity and a saline freshness derived from the vineyard's decomposed granite soils, producing a palate of both breadth and definition.
Finish:
The finish is long and graceful, marked by persistent notes of quince, acacia, and a lingering salinity. Subtle torrefaction from partial oak ageing adds depth without overshadowing the wine's vibrant character, ensuring every sip ends on a poised and moreish note.
