M. Chapoutier : Chante-Alouette 2020

Chapoutier's blended Hermitage blanc is the 2020 Hermitage Chante-Alouette, which was bottled at the end of August 2021. Almost entirely Marsanne, it boasts scents of gently toasted marshmallow, pear and citrus on the nose. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied and less concentrated than the selections parcellaires wines, but it’s charming and nicely focused, finishing long, vibrant and refreshing.

Shows impressive concentration, with a layer of melon, quince and heather supported by a foundation of wet stone. Lightly honeyed and well-defined, the palate shows beautiful integration and drive. Reveals echoing notes of dried verbena, white tea tannins and salted, buttery brioche on the lingering finish. Drink now through 2037. 82 cases imported.

Appealingly ripe, primarily apricot fruit with mango notes. Full bodied but not fat, with good weight, presence, mango-like acidity and deft oak work helping to underpin the rich fruit. Tangy, spicy finish of impressive length, ending with tobacco and cinnamon. An authentic white Hermitage with freshness and grandeur but also drinkability. A very good, classic vintage of this cuvée.

100% Marsanne. Lively and fresh on the nose, with notes of quince, citrus and confit fruit. The palate is fresh yet ripe with a confit edge. Adequate fruit but not at all heavy. Some drive on the pristine finish. (JL)

Brilliant all the way, the 2020 Hermitage Chante-Alouette Blanc is a white readers should snatch up. All Marsanne from a mix of both granitic sites and more loess sites, brought up in a mix of demi-muids and tank, it has a gorgeous perfume of honeyed peach, quince, crushed stone, and toast. With bright acidity, medium to full body, beautiful mid-palate depth, and a great finish, it will benefit from just a few years of bottle age and keep for 15+ years or more. It’s a quintessential Hermitage Blanc.