{"title":"Rhone Whites","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"chateau-grillet-chateau-grillet-viognier-rhone-france-2017","title":"Château Grillet, Château-Grillet Viognier, Rhône, France, 2017","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe estate was acquired in June 2011 by the Pinault family, who own several other vineyards gathered under the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.groupeartemis.com\/categorie-participations\/artemis-domaines\/\"\u003eArtémis Domaines \u003c\/a\u003elabel which are managed by Frédéric Engerer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChâteau-Grillet has a rich history, illustrating perfectly the passion and devotion of many generations of men and women for this exceptional terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vineyards of Condrieu and Château-Grillet were planted by the emperor Probus in the 3rd century AD, from plants brought from Dalmatia. Numerous mosaics preserved at the archaeological site in Saint-Roman-en-Gal (around 12km away) confirm its origins and one of them shows a harvest scene including grape crushing. The early development of the vineyards in this region is probably linked to the Pax Romana. This allowed the ancient Gallic tribe the Allobroges, whose territory included part of the right bank of the Rhône facing Vienne, to acquire Roman citizenship and therefore have the right to plant vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eViognier\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRhône, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChâteau-Grillet is a wine for the initiated, which does not give up its secrets easily; it has great elegance, tightness and a magnificent aromatic complexity. It is a wine for cellaring, and requires patience until it reveals all its magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts minerality is often accompanied by a freshness reminiscent of a sea breeze, sometimes even with hints of mint. The aromatic spectrum is wide and varied. Floral elegance (rose, violet, lime-blossom) and soft fruitiness (pear, pineapple, apricot) can also accompany warmer, more indulgent notes such as honey, nougat, hazelnut, vanilla, white truffle, or spices like saffron.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA remarkably well-balanced wine, dominated by its fat which is nicely offset by the excellent acidity. Château-Grillet is a perfect match for truffled foie gras, roast turbot, grilled lobster, scallops or Bresse chicken in cream sauce. Pairings with Asian cuisine, spicy foods and sweet-and-sour flavours can also provide wonderful experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBottled just two weeks prior to my visit, the 2017 Chateau Grillet was still looking awfully good for having been fined, filtered and stuck into a confined space. It's a forward, opulent vintage, boasting flamboyant stone-fruit flavors dressed up with hints of jasmine and white pepper. While full-bodied and rich, it never seems heavy or oily, boasting a long, cool, refreshing finish. Wow!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Decanter \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atherton","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39896516165674,"sku":"","price":569.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-Grillet-Chateau-Grillet-Viognier-Rhone-France-2017.jpg?v=1762528618"},{"product_id":"the-ojai-vineyard-bien-nacido-chardonnay-santa-maria-valley-california-2022","title":"The Ojai Vineyard, Bien Nacido Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAdam Tolmach went to UC Davis and studied viticulture and enology, and after graduating in 1976 he settled down on the property his grandfather bought in the Ojai Valley in 1933 to farm sweet corn and melons, selling them at a roadside stand. After two years of this satisfying, yet difficult and nearly profitless work he sought employment in his field of study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdam had planted a vineyard in Ojai to Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc and had begun producing wine from that fruit in 1983. When the collaboration with Clendenen ended he concentrated all his attention on The Ojai Vineyard to further explore the infinite details of his craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking back over the last 25 years, one can see the development of The Ojai Vineyard came in three distinct phases. In the beginning it was lots of fun discovering the budding Santa Barbara County, experimenting with new plantings, new areas, and a wide selection of varietals; Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and other Rhone varietals. Back in 1983 the vines were grown without much care in what was called a California sprawl. It took years to get growers to move towards progressive practices like drip irrigation and vertical trellising to improved wine grape quality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAdam Tolmach\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Chardonnay \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSanta Maria Valley, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe old-vines source of the Bien Nacido Chardonnay is rooted in loamy soil over shale. The wine reflects its cool climate origin with high-toned sweet citrus and orchard fruit aromas touched with notes of acacia flowers and sea breeze. The palate is full and elegant, offering flavors of Meyer lemon curd and salted pineapple that intertwine with a bright acidity, leading to a lively, mineral-laced finish. Enjoy with scallops, sushi or fish tacos. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith ripe exuberance and focused freshness, this 2022 Bien Nacido Chardonnay makes sure strides on a tight rope. The palate is voluminous and elegant; there’s a rich lemon curd flavor that almost reminds the winery of their old Solomon Hills Chardonnays.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapevine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48555199168817,"sku":null,"price":32.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/TheOjaiVineyard_BienNacidoChardonnay_SantaMariaValley_California_2022.jpg?v=1711041074"},{"product_id":"domaine-jamet-condrieu-vernillon-rhone-france-2022","title":"Domaine Jamet, 'Vernillon' Condrieu, Rhône, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOne look at the steeply perched, ancient terroirs of Northern Rhône’s Côte-Rôtie is enough to understand why farming them is a badge of honor, yet the Jamet family is fortunate enough to own 7 hectares among 20 of the appellation’s most superb parcels in 15 lieux-dits. Joseph Jamet started the domaine in 1950 with only a third of a hectare in the Côte Brune. Like many of his neighbors, his land had been planted to peach and apricot orchards, as they were easier to farm than the steep vineyard terraces of Côte-Rôtie. Over the years, however, Joseph began to acquire more vineyard parcels throughout the appellation, clearing and replanting several of them himself. Today, his son Jean-Paul and Jean-Paul’s wife, Corinne, run the domaine and have made vast improvements to the estate by instigating soil studies and installing gravity-fed systems into their winery.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrapes\/Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eViognier\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRhône, France\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Condrieu Vernillon is a blend of two parcels - Vernon and Côte Châtillon in the commune of Condrieu, in the northern part of the appellation. Vernon is next to the Coteau de Chéry, with eastern exposition, and biotite granite soil. While Châtillon is the northernmost parcel of Condrieu, with muscovite granite soil. It is aged in a blend of stainless steel, barrique, and sandstone amphora, completes malolactic fermentation then aged for 9 months before release. The first vintage for Vernillon was 2015.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kermit Lynch","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49032020230449,"sku":null,"price":149.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/DomaineJamet_Vernillon_Condrieu_Rhone_France_2022.jpg?v=1714419490"},{"product_id":"jouves-croisille-pur-jus-orange-vin-de-france-france-2023","title":"Jouves \u0026 Croisille, 'Pur Jus' Orange, Vin De France, France, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Y_f-pkTfcX0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJouves \u0026amp; Croisille Pur Jus Blanc de Maceration is a skin contact white blend of popular Cahor varieties. A natty funk baby with ripe stone fruit, herbs, honey, and a touch of nuttiness on the nose, it’s full-bodied and rich on the palate, with flavors of apricot, peach, and persistent minerality. The skin contact gives this wine a pleasant tannic grip, adding complexity and depth. 90 days of maceration in concrete tanks, bottled unfined and unfiltered with a very low SO² addition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJouves \u0026amp; Croisille is the brainchild of long-time friends Fabien Jouves, Germain Croissille, and his brother Simon. Fabien and the Croisille brothers both share the same philosophies when it comes to farming, vinification, and the future of the Cahors appellation. The Croisille and Jouves family both farm about 30 hectares using organic and biodynamic practices. Wanting to make something together for quite some time now – outside of their family estates – they’ve chosen to collaborate and create a new project using friends’ grapes who farm the same way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFabien Jouves’ first vintage was in 2006, Germain’s not far behind in 2007. The vinification process is non-interventionist and occurs naturally with spontaneous yeast. Various vessels are used to age the wines: concrete tanks, barrels, or large foudres depending on the wine’s personality. When it comes to the style of winemaking – Even though Cahors is physically closer to the Bordeaux appellation – they choose to look towards burgundy or northern rhone for inspiration. Similar to Burgundy, they focus on showcasing the various differences in soil composition and even choose to use burgundy bottles rather than Bordeaux.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the new faces of Cahors – they feel it’s their responsibility to show the world the true expression of Cahors and the real beauty of Malbec, pure and unadulterated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic and Biodynamic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFabien Jouves, Germain Croissille, and Simon Croissille\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e25% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Colombard, 25% Semillon, 25% Chardonnay; Orange Wine, Skin Contact\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCahors, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJouves \u0026amp; Croisille Pur Jus Blanc de Maceration is a skin contact white blend of popular Cahors varieties. A natty funk baby with ripe stone fruit, herbs, honey, and a touch of nuttiness on the nose, it’s full-bodied and rich on the palate, with flavors of apricot, peach, and persistent minerality. The skin contact gives this wine a pleasant tannic grip, adding complexity and depth. 90 days of maceration in concrete tanks, bottled unfined and unfiltered with a very low SO² addition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eProduct Size: 750ml\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Garber","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50334185619761,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Jouves_Croisille_PurJus_Orange_VinDeFrance_France_2023.jpg?v=1732138737"},{"product_id":"sine-qua-non-distenta-iv-white-central-coast-california-2022","title":"Sine Qua Non, Distenta IV White, Central Coast, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSine Qua Non was created after the 1994 harvest of a Bien Nacido Syrah named “The Queen of Spades”. Winemaker Manfred Krankl feels strongly that each vintage is a completely unique wine and thus he gives each wine a unique name. He also creates the artwork for each new label himself. Previously, Manfred had made wines with Bryan Babcock and John Alban and still sources much of his fruit from Alban’s vineyard. The basic white wines have always been a white blend of Chardonnay, Roussanne and Viognier and a red wine based on Syrah plus Grenache. Sometimes there are small quantities of Rose and a Grenache-based red.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSine Qua Non has its own winemaking facility in Ventura, California not far from the Santa Barbara vineyards where the fruit is sourced from. In the last few years Manfred and his wife, Elaine, have begun creating their own vineyards dedicated to Rhone varietals. Their winemaking philosophy is to work in very small batches, gravity flow, natural yeasts (unless a fermentation problem is anticipated), long lees aging for the whites and repeated racking for the reds to open them up. This is a modified explanation of a very dedicated and artistic approach to winemaking. The wines are simultaneously very rich and elegant, superbly balanced and thoroughly harmonious with food, never overwhelming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eManfred Krakl\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e33% Chardonnay, 27% Viognier, 24% Gelber Muskateller, 12% Roussanne, 4% Petit Manseng\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVentura, Central Coast, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOn the nose, it offers a symphony of aromas that entice and intrigue. Delicate notes of ripe citrus fruits, such as luscious Meyer lemon and juicy tangerine, dance alongside enticing floral undertones of jasmine and honeysuckle. These bright and aromatic elements are complemented by subtle hints of tropical fruits like pineapple and passion fruit, adding layers of depth and exotic allure.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe palate is a revelation of flavors, seamlessly blending richness and freshness. Vibrant citrus flavors take center stage, with zesty lemon and tangy grapefruit leading the way. They are accompanied by a medley of orchard fruits, including ripe pear and crisp green apple, adding a delightful crispness and juiciness to the wine. The tropical nuances observed on the nose also make a prominent appearance, with succulent pineapple and ripe mango lending a luscious and tropical character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e","brand":"Chambers","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50688613286193,"sku":null,"price":275.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Sine_Qua_Non_Distenta_IV_White_Central_Coast_California_2022.jpg?v=1738847816"},{"product_id":"domaine-jean-louis-chave-hermitage-blanc-rhone-valley-france-2022","title":"Jean-Louis Chave, Hermitage Blanc, Rhône Valley, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGoing back to 1481, when the first Jean-Louis Chave was gifted a vineyard in St Joseph by the nobleman Farconnet, 25 generations have farmed some of the best parcels in the Northern Rhône. Though now known as perhaps the best producer of Hermitage (and certainly among the best blenders in the world), the family only expanded to this famous hill during the mid-1800s wave of phylloxera that decimated Europe's vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1970s, when Gerard Chave took over from his father, the domaine rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. Gerard's son Jean-Louis (25th of his name) now oversees the estate and has shown an ever expanding dedication to improving the already stunning quality of these rare wines. Jean-Louis Chave regularly dedicates the domaine to intense and exacting projects, the benefits of which will be seen by future generations. Indeed, the estate employs three full time stonemasons just to repair the traditional stone walls dotting the vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 1990s, Jean-Louis Chave has offered a second label known as 'J.L. Chave Sélection' that provides a glimpse of the reason for the estate's fame at a fraction of the price. Many of these wines are from declassified estate wine and long term farming contracts, and are vinified in the domaine's primary cellar in Mauves. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eJean-Louis Chave\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrapes \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarsanne\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eHermitage AOC, Rhône Valley, Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncreased acidity for the vintage results in a taut structure and incredible length. Notes of orange blossom and lemon curd.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96-98 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eI continue to think that this estate makes one of the greatest white wines in the world. Looking at the 2022 Hermitage Blanc, it was harvested starting on the 23rd of August and is still resting in a mix of barrel and tank. I was able to taste through multiple lieux-dits, all of which were impressive, with the Péléat bringing the power and opulence and Les Rocoules and L'Ermite bringing more structure and precision. This will be a full-bodied, deep, concentrated wine that will have decades of life. In a time when many refuse to take any risks and are abandoning any hope of true greatness in wine, it's such a relief to have a producer like this continue to make concentrated, powerful, utterly classic and singular wines. Bravo. 96-98+\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBottled in September 2024, just two months before my visit, the 2022 L'Hermitage Blanc is brilliant. Prominent honeysuckle, lemon zest, ripe peach, cedar, quince and a hint of jasmine burst from the glass. The full-bodied 2022 seamlessly combines elevated flavor concentration with vibrant freshness on the palate, delivering a precise, impressive L'Hermitage Blanc. The refined finish is remarkably long and focused, enhanced by a nuanced phenolic grip.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe plots of Péléat and Rocoules were a little richer than a typical year, with relatively low acidity, while Ermite had a honeysuckle florality and a little more flesh than usual. Rich, dense and mighty, it is the opposite in style to the fine, fresh 2021. Picking started on 23 August in 2022. A tasting of the different plots was instructive, but the wines had been moved from barrel to tank the day before, so the score is a guide only. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e2022 was the earliest harvest in the estate's history. Jean-Louis Chave harvested the Roucoule and Péléat plots on August 23-24, while Maison Blanche and Ermite were picked on August 28. The 2022 Hermitage Blanc reveals a complex, ripe bouquet of almonds, white flowers, honey and spices mingled with baked orchard fruits. Full-bodied and concentrated, the palate is rich and dense with a suave texture, a multidimensional core of fruit framed by chalky dry extracts and a delicate, phenolic, gastronomic bitterness. Slightly austere at this stage, this gastronomic wine is built for the cellar.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shiverick","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51255847682353,"sku":null,"price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Domaine_Jean-Louis_Chave_Hermitage_Blanc_Rhone_Valley_France_2022.jpg?v=1744723378"},{"product_id":"jean-louis-chave-selection-sybele-crozes-hermitage-blanc-rhone-valley-france-2023","title":"Jean-Louis Chave \"Sybele\" Crozes-Hermitage Blanc, Rhône Valley, France, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGoing back to 1481, when the first Jean-Louis Chave was gifted a vineyard in St Joseph by the nobleman Farconnet, 25 generations have farmed some of the best parcels in the Northern Rhône. Though now known as perhaps the best producer of Hermitage (and certainly among the best blenders in the world), the family only expanded to this famous hill during the mid-1800s wave of phylloxera that decimated Europe's vineyards. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1970s, when Gerard Chave took over from his father, the domaine rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. Gerard's son Jean-Louis (25th of his name) now oversees the estate and has shown an ever expanding dedication to improving the already stunning quality of these rare wines. Jean-Louis Chave regularly dedicates the domaine to intense and exacting projects, the benefits of which will be seen by future generations. Indeed, the estate employs three full time stonemasons just to repair the traditional stone walls dotting the vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 1990s, Jean-Louis Chave has offered a second label known as 'J.L. Chave Sélection' that provides a glimpse of the reason for the estate's fame at a fraction of the price. Many of these wines are from declassified estate wine and long term farming contracts, and are vinified in the domaine's primary cellar in Mauves. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural and Organic. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eJean-Louis Chave\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCrozes-Hermitage, Rhône Valley, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrapes\/Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e60% Marsanne, 40% Roussanne\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Crozes Hermitage Blanc Sybèle 2023 by J.L. Chave showcases the brilliance of white Rhône wines with a harmonious blend of Marsanne and Roussanne. Crafted by the legendary J.L. Chave family, renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and mastery of Northern Rhône terroirs, this wine delivers elegance, texture, and vibrant aromatics. The \"Sybèle\" cuvée reflects the unique character of Crozes-Hermitage, marrying ripe orchard fruit, floral notes, and a touch of minerality for a truly refined experience. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePairs with roast chicken with tarragon, grilled white fish with a beurre blanc sauce, or soft-ripened cheeses like Brie or Camembert.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStone fruits, tart peach, blanched almonds, and minerality all emerge from the 2023 Crozes-Hermitage Sybèle Blanc. Medium-bodied and juicy on the palate, with beautiful balance, integrated acidity, and a clean, fresh finish, it's drinking nicely today yet should easily have 2-4 years of longevity. It's impeccably made, and I'd happily drink a bottle. Drink 2025-2029. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shiverick","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52022027321649,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Jean-Louis_Chave_Selection_Sybele_Crozes-Hermitage_Blanc_Rhone_Valley_France_2023.jpg?v=1762526347"},{"product_id":"jean-louis-chave-hermitage-blanc-rhone-valley-france-2011","title":"Jean-Louis Chave, Hermitage Blanc, Rhône Valley, France, 2011","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGoing back to 1481, when the first Jean-Louis Chave was gifted a vineyard in St Joseph by the nobleman Farconnet, 25 generations have farmed some of the best parcels in the Northern Rhône. Though now known as perhaps the best producer of Hermitage (and certainly among the best blenders in the world), the family only expanded to this famous hill during the mid-1800s wave of phylloxera that decimated Europe's vineyards. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1970s, when Gerard Chave took over from his father, the domaine rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. Gerard's son Jean-Louis (25th of his name) now oversees the estate and has shown an ever expanding dedication to improving the already stunning quality of these rare wines. Jean-Louis Chave regularly dedicates the domaine to intense and exacting projects, the benefits of which will be seen by future generations. Indeed, the estate employs three full time stonemasons just to repair the traditional stone walls dotting the vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 1990s, Jean-Louis Chave has offered a second label known as 'J.L. Chave Sélection' that provides a glimpse of the reason for the estate's fame at a fraction of the price. Many of these wines are from declassified estate wine and long term farming contracts, and are vinified in the domaine's primary cellar in Mauves. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural and Organic. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eJean-Louis Chave\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eHermitage AOC, Rhône Valley, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrapes\/Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e80% Marsanne, 20% Roussanne\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYellow robe. Varnish, soaked white plums, dried fruits airs combine with verbena, tilleul (linden), brioche baked bread, aniseed, spice and Comté cheese. There is plenty of potential on the nose. The palate bears generous gras richness and body in a rolled up, withdrawn wine. It is elegant inside. The finale is lucid, dentelle, the aftertaste bringing forward aniseed, some licorice. The tightness on the finish is impressive. Come back to this when it is 12 to 15 years’ old for all its possibilities. \"It is more serious than the 2012,\" Jean-Louis Chave.\"\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI love the 2011 Hermitage. (This vintage, in general, produced incredibly sexy, flamboyant wines that have drunk well since release.) Its deep ruby\/purple color is followed by tons of sweet crème de cassis, peppery spice, sun-dried flowers, and the classic minerality that’s the defining feature of the Bessards lieu-dit that dominates this cuvée. 96+\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA structured, almost wiry wine, Chave's 2011 Hermitage remains a bit tight and tannic. That said, it still offers plenty of pleasure and has developed lovely aromas of leather, cured meat, redcurrants and black olives. Medium to full-bodied, with a rich, velvety feel on the finish, it should continue to drink well for at least another decade and probably longer. (JC)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStill a bit reserved aromatically, with hints of orange blossom and crème anglaise peeking out, this features a captivating display of racy quinine, honeysuckle and white peach flavors inlaid into a rich core of brioche, Cavaillon melon, white truffle, smoked almond and heather honey. Incredibly long. Hard to resist now, but ideal for when your toddler graduates college. Best from 2019 through 2030. *Collectible*\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJust bottled, the 2011 Hermitage Blanc also shows the richer side of Hermitage with its full-bodied, voluptuously textured and up-front profile. Honeysuckle, licorice, toast, citrus oil and liquid mineral-like qualities all emerge from this beauty, and it stays beautifully fresh and focused on the palate. A blend of mostly Marsanne, yet with roughly 20% Roussanne, from the l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, this substantial white should be consumed over the coming 2-4 years, or forgotten for a decade or more. It will have over two decades of longevity. One of the highlight visits during my time spent working in the Northern Rhone, Jean-Louis Chave (who is often called 'The Pope of Hermitage' by others) makes some of the most profound wines in the world today. (JD)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLight yellow. Intense scents of nectarine, pear skin and lemon curd, with complicating floral and mineral notes gaining power with air. Broad and fleshy but tightly focused, offering vibrant orchard and pit fruit flavors and a refreshingly bitter note of citrus pith. Dry and nervy on the penetrating, powerful. sharply focused finish, which leaves sexy honeysuckle and ginger notes behind. I suspect that this wine will age gracefully on its tension and balance. (JR)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shiverick","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52916740915505,"sku":null,"price":480.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Jean-Louis_Chave_Hermitage_Blanc_Rhone_Valley_France_2011.jpg?v=1771848069"},{"product_id":"sine-qua-non-distenta-v-white-central-coast-california-2023","title":"Sine Qua Non, Distenta V White, Central Coast, California, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSine Qua Non was created after the 1994 harvest of a Bien Nacido Syrah named “The Queen of Spades”. Winemaker Manfred Krankl feels strongly that each vintage is a completely unique wine and thus he gives each wine a unique name. He also creates the artwork for each new label himself. Previously, Manfred had made wines with Bryan Babcock and John Alban and still sources much of his fruit from Alban’s vineyard. The basic white wines have always been a white blend of Chardonnay, Roussanne and Viognier and a red wine based on Syrah plus Grenache. Sometimes there are small quantities of Rose and a Grenache-based red.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSine Qua Non has its own winemaking facility in Ventura, California not far from the Santa Barbara vineyards where the fruit is sourced from. In the last few years Manfred and his wife, Elaine, have begun creating their own vineyards dedicated to Rhone varietals. Their winemaking philosophy is to work in very small batches, gravity flow, natural yeasts (unless a fermentation problem is anticipated), long lees aging for the whites and repeated racking for the reds to open them up. This is a modified explanation of a very dedicated and artistic approach to winemaking. The wines are simultaneously very rich and elegant, superbly balanced and thoroughly harmonious with food, never overwhelming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoussanne-led Rhône white blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVentura, Central Coast, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTextural. Exotic. A richly layered Rhône-style white crafted with Sine Qua Non's signature precision and opulence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDistenta V White continues the estate's tradition of producing some of California's most compelling and age-worthy white blends. Built around Roussanne and complemented by other Rhône varieties, the 2023 release offers depth, aromatic lift, and a luxurious mouthfeel that reflects the meticulous craftsmanship of Sine Qua Non.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoneyed pear, apricot, and Meyer lemon. White flowers, almond cream, and subtle spice. Full, layered palate with SQN's trademark texture. Long, mineral-tinged finish with vibrant acidity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoussanne-driven richness balanced by bright aromatics. Complex, multi-varietal structure typical of SQN whites. Micro-production and extremely limited allocations. Built for both early opulence and graceful aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - The Wine Palate (2022 Vintage: Distenta IV)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2022 White Wine Distenta IV is composed of 15% Chardonnay, 10% Viognier, 30% Gelber Muskateller, 32% Roussanne, and 13% Petit Manseng. It comes predominantly from Eleven Confessions Vineyard, with smaller proportions from The Third Twin (8%) and Cumulus (28%). It was aged in French oak puncheons and demi-muids for months, with 75% new oak. WOW - an amazing perfume erupts from the glass of orange blossoms, juicy white peaches, honeycomb, and allspice, followed by hints of baking bread and mango pudding. The full-bodied palate delivers a fantastically satiny texture offset by amazing tension with a myriad of super-intense tropical and orchard fruit flavors, finishing with epic length.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53164549046577,"sku":null,"price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Sine_Qua_Non_Distenta_V_White_Central_Coast_California_2023.jpg?v=1773411648"},{"product_id":"jean-louis-chave-hermitage-blanc-rhone-valley-france-2023","title":"Jean-Louis Chave, Hermitage Blanc, Rhône Valley, France, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGoing back to 1481, when the first Jean-Louis Chave was gifted a vineyard in St Joseph by the nobleman Farconnet, 25 generations have farmed some of the best parcels in the Northern Rhône. Though now known as perhaps the best producer of Hermitage (and certainly among the best blenders in the world), the family only expanded to this famous hill during the mid-1800s wave of phylloxera that decimated Europe's vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1970s, when Gerard Chave took over from his father, the domaine rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. Gerard's son Jean-Louis (25th of his name) now oversees the estate and has shown an ever expanding dedication to improving the already stunning quality of these rare wines. Jean-Louis Chave regularly dedicates the domaine to intense and exacting projects, the benefits of which will be seen by future generations. Indeed, the estate employs three full time stonemasons just to repair the traditional stone walls dotting the vineyards. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 1990s, Jean-Louis Chave has offered a second label known as 'J.L. Chave Sélection' that provides a glimpse of the reason for the estate's fame at a fraction of the price. Many of these wines are from declassified estate wine and long term farming contracts, and are vinified in the domaine's primary cellar in Mauves. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eJean-Louis Chave\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrapes \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarsanne\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eHermitage AOC, Rhône Valley, Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncreased acidity for the vintage results in a taut structure and incredible length. Notes of orange blossom and lemon curd.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95-97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"The 2023 L'Hermitage Blanc is shaping up to be an exceptionally elegant expression of this multi-site blend. Tasting through individual lieux-dits like Péléat, Les Rocoules and L'Hermite reveals the makings of a vivid white L'Hermitage. Fragrant aromas of ripe pear, wet stone, chamomile, white peach and subtle toasty nuances gracefully rise from the glass. While less concentrated than the bottled 2022 tasted alongside, the 2023 emphasizes energy and freshness, culminating in a long, detailed finish. (Drink between 2025-2040)\" 01\/25\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94-96 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"The 2023 L'Hermitage Blanc is shaping up to be an exceptionally elegant expression of this multi-site blend. Tasting through individual lieux-dits like Péléat, Les Rocoules and L'Hermite reveals the makings of a vivid white L'Hermitage. Fragrant aromas of ripe pear, wet stone, chamomile, white peach and subtle toasty nuances gracefully rise from the glass. While less concentrated than the bottled 2022 tasted alongside, the 2023 emphasizes energy and freshness, culminating in a long, detailed finish. (Drink between 2025-2040)\" 01\/25\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shiverick","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54152508178737,"sku":null,"price":419.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Jean-LouisChave_HermitageBlanc_RhoneValley_France_2023.jpg?v=1778300616"},{"product_id":"m-chapoutier-invitare-condrieu-rhone-france","title":"M. CHAPOUTIER, Invitare, Condrieu, Rhone, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe story began with Michel Chapoutier, a unique man with a thirst for knowledge, definitely one of a kind. Michel is openminded and always willing to learn. He seeks to discover and reflect the full potential of his terroirs and let the soils express their true character. That which gives the wines their signature style. This now forms the basis of the M. CHAPOUTIER ethos and our team strives to reveal the very best of what the soils have to offer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMichel Chapoutier\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"productDegustationItemBody\"\u003e100% Viognier\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRhône\u003c\/span\u003e, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\"Invitare\", with its notes of white peaches, candied fruit and nice taut acidity, shows us the authentic character of the Condrieu appellation. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended food pairing: Grilled sea bream with yuzu sauce and black rice. \u003cbr\u003eServing temperature: 10-12°C. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA well-rounded. textural and succulent white with notes of fresh lemons, blanched almonds, sage and some stones. It’s medium-bodied with a mineral drive. Succulent green apple character, with a positive bitterness throughout. It’s precise, lively and textured with a salivating, floral finish. Drink or hold.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2022 Condrieu Invitare comes from the northern part of the Condrieu (there's a splash from vines near Limony). It's an outstanding wine, offering pretty orange, quince, and floral notes as well as a kiss of minerality. Balanced and medium-bodied, it has a bright, refreshing profile and a great finish. Drink bottles over the coming 5-7 years or so.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55316490780977,"sku":null,"price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/M.CHAPOUTIER_Invitare_Condrieu_Rhone_France_2022.jpg?v=1784348282"},{"product_id":"epoch-estate-wines-viognier-york-mountain-california-2023","title":"Epoch Estate Wines, Viognier, York Mountain, California, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhen setting out on our “crazy” quest to make wine, we did not have our sights set on any particular wine region. However, we knew two things for sure: we loved wines made from Rhone varieties, and being geologists, we understood the importance terroir plays in the making of world-class wines. Upon extensive research and travel, we kept coming back to Paso Robles for the weather, unique soils, hilliness, and extreme temperature swings that are known to this region and are found within each of our vineyard sites – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. The cowboy culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and unmistakable beauty were just added bonuses! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur own epoch officially began in 2004 with the purchase of our Paderewski Vineyard (there is a REALLY cool story behind this property and its name, but in an attempt to not be too long-winded here and now, check out \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/epochwines.com\/our-legacy\/#paderewski\"\u003ethis story\u003c\/a\u003e for all of the details). This chapter became so fruitful (pun intended) that we spread our roots to Catapult Vineyard in 2008 and then the historic York Mountain Winery \u003cspan\u003etwo years later…\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eToday we are beyond blessed to be stewards of these lands, and we are honored to carry on the legacies of York Mountain and Ignacy Paderewski through our wines.  Wines that are carefully crafted from Rhone, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties.  Like we said, there are a multitude of stories begging to be told within this short summary, so we hope you take some time to read more about us and eventually come see us in person!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eClick \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/CxkUDDxFU6s\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e to watch our YouTube video with the winemaker!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJordan Fiorentini\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e88% Viognier, 12% Roussanne\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYork Mountain, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA one-of-a-kind refreshing and ephemeral Viognier from the long, luxuriously cool 2023 vintage delivers layers of nuance and vibrant flavors that unfold as the wine breathes – green pear, pineapple, kaffir lime, lemon curd, powdered sugar, white pepper, fresh cut sage, wet stone, and steely minerals. The palate starts off citrus-driven with white flowers woven throughout and gains depth as it fans out across the tongue, always maintaining a bright acid backbone. As the wine breathes, white peach, crisp nectarine, and honeysuckle add dimension to its mesmerizing perfume.  If you like the wine more refreshing, drink it young. If you want it to gain richness and weight, cellar age it for 2+ years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlended with 12% Roussanne and aged six months in French oak, the 2023 York Mountain Viognier is an herbal, citrus-driven take on the variety, tamping down its usual floral exuberance and replacing it with elderflower and mountain sage aromas. The palate is svelte and seamless, with brilliant clarity and subtle phenolic richness driving the pure, bright finish. This is a beautiful and singular rendition of the varietal and one of the more compelling white wine bottlings in the region.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - The Wine Palate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe 2023 Viognier is a blend of 88% Viognier and 12% Roussanne. It was aged 6 months sur lie in French oak puncheons and barrels, 20% new. It swans out of the glass with showy notes of juicy white peaches, pear tart, and guava, leading to suggestions of nutmeg, rose oil, and candle wax. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers tropical and stone fruit layers with a satiny texture and a racy backbone, finishing long and perfumed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2023 Viognier opens with an herbal vegetal note that I find wildly attractive before giving way to hints of kiwi, young mango, and wet stone. It's soft-textured, nearly oily in feel, yet quickly balanced by a whiplash of zesty acidity, sour grapefruit and lime, as saline minerals saturate throughout. The 2023 finishes incredibly long and full of tension, leaving a salty tinge to fade slowly. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBlended with 12% Roussanne, the 2023 Viognier is made in a vibrant, crisp style. Slightly reductive notes of crushed citrus, white peach, and tangerine-like notes define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, has a round, layered mouthfeel, good acidity, and outstanding length.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56051763577137,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/EpochEstateWines_Viognier_YorkMountain_California_2023.jpg?v=1788174105"},{"product_id":"chateau-grillet-chateau-grillet-viognier-rhone-france-2022","title":"Château Grillet, Château-Grillet Viognier, Rhône, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe estate was acquired in June 2011 by the Pinault family, who own several other vineyards gathered under the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.groupeartemis.com\/categorie-participations\/artemis-domaines\/\"\u003eArtémis Domaines \u003c\/a\u003elabel which are managed by Frédéric Engerer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChâteau-Grillet has a rich history, illustrating perfectly the passion and devotion of many generations of men and women for this exceptional terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vineyards of Condrieu and Château-Grillet were planted by the emperor Probus in the 3rd century AD, from plants brought from Dalmatia. Numerous mosaics preserved at the archaeological site in Saint-Roman-en-Gal (around 12km away) confirm its origins and one of them shows a harvest scene including grape crushing. The early development of the vineyards in this region is probably linked to the Pax Romana. This allowed the ancient Gallic tribe the Allobroges, whose territory included part of the right bank of the Rhône facing Vienne, to acquire Roman citizenship and therefore have the right to plant vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAloïs Houeto\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eViognier\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRhône, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChâteau-Grillet is a wine for the initiated, which does not give up its secrets easily; it has great elegance, tightness and a magnificent aromatic complexity. It is a wine for cellaring, and requires patience until it reveals all its magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts minerality is often accompanied by a freshness reminiscent of a sea breeze, sometimes even with hints of mint. The aromatic spectrum is wide and varied. Floral elegance (rose, violet, lime-blossom) and soft fruitiness (pear, pineapple, apricot) can also accompany warmer, more indulgent notes such as honey, nougat, hazelnut, vanilla, white truffle, or spices like saffron.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA remarkably well-balanced wine, dominated by its fat which is nicely offset by the excellent acidity. Château-Grillet is a perfect match for truffled foie gras, roast turbot, grilled lobster, scallops or Bresse chicken in cream sauce. Pairings with Asian cuisine, spicy foods and sweet-and-sour flavours can also provide wonderful experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2022 Chateau Grillet comes from one of the estate's earliest harvests, with grapes picked on 27 August. Evoking a complex, elegant bouquet of almond blossoms, exotic notes, violet, white flowers, ripe pear and spices, it's followed by a full-bodied, dense and rich palate with some purity, a racy spine, a fleshy core of fruit and a long, pure finish accented by delicate dry extracts and gastronomic bitterness. Exceptionally saline and ethereal, this vintage captures the satiny elegance of this renowned terroir, offering a notably tense and pure profile typical of early harvests in Condrieu. Whether this signifies a shift toward a more refined style or reflects the characteristics of the vintage will become more evident in the ensuing years. This vintage would benefit from 2 to 3 years in the cellar to fully develop its potential.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Artemis Domaines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56053881569585,"sku":null,"price":499.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Ch_teau_Grillet_Ch_teau-Grillet_Viognier_Rh_ne_France_2022.jpg?v=1789434679"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/rhone-whites.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}