Chapoutier Chante-Alouette 2020

This 2020 Hermitage Blanc from Chapoutier is a delightful surprise. Don’t be fooled by the demure “white Hermitage” it packs a complex punch. Quince and acacia mingling with a hint of ginger, all woven through with a luscious richness of honey and ripe stone fruits. A touch of walnut adds a dry counterpoint, keeping things interesting. The secret lies in the meticulous details. Made entirely from Marsanne, a grape known for its finesse, the grapes hail from three esteemed Chapoutier vineyards. Organic and biodynamic practices nurture the fruit, and fermentation is a thoughtful mix of oak and stainless steel. The result? A textural delight – full-bodied yet balanced, with a long, clean finish that promises further evolution in the coming years. A superb example of what Hermitage Blanc can achieve.