2016 Ferraton Père & Fils Hermitage Blanc Les Miaux

Light bright yellow. Fresh, mineral-laced Meyer lemon, pear and floral aromas are complemented by deeper honey and marzipan scents. Tightly wound orchard and pit fruit flavors unfold steadily with air, picking up a bitter citrus pith character and a touch of smokiness. Shows strong tension and leaves behind dusty mineral and citrus notes on a very long, penetrating finish.

As to the two Hermitage Blanc, the 2016 Hermitage Les Miaux Blanc is made from 100% Marsanne brought up in demi-muids. It boasts a smoking nose of buttered citrus, tangerine, flower oil and wood smoke. Big, rich, concentrated and voluptuous on the palate, with beautiful density, this is a terrific white that ticks all the right boxes. It’s another “best to date” wine from this awesome vintage and can be drunk anytime over the coming decade or more. The only downside to these latest releases from Ferraton? They’re made in tiny quantities and there’s just not enough to go around. For readers who don’t know, this estate is managed by Michel Chapoutier, yet they have their own vineyard sources and winemaking team.

Matured entirely in demi-muids and sourced from Les Dionnières, the 2016 Hermitage Les Miaux Blanc features scents of toasted marshmallows, melon and orange zest. It's medium to full-bodied, with a plump, appealing mouthfeel, yet there's plenty of brine and zest on the finish to balance things out.