Hailing from the Crozes-Hermitage appellation, which sits just around the famous Hill of Hermitage, this illustrious blend of Marsanne and Roussanne is a textbook example of its appellation. Winemaker Gilles Robin’s dedicated study of single vineyard vinification and aging, prior to blending his wines, has certainly paid off. The terroir of Robin’s vineyards in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation is perfectly suited to Marsanne and Roussanne which are limited to yields of about 25 hectoliters per hectare, about the lowest you will see. Drawing on 4 generations of family tradition and modern techniques, Robin has taken the domaine’s wines to a new level of perfection in the last twenty years. Even before he took over the domaine, he worked the vineyards closely with his father, learning the vines and developing his passion. This has served him well, he is now one of the most visionary producers in the Rhône Valley.

Building on generational knowledge and innovative practice, Robin focuses on natural farming, harvesting small yields and selective sorting before fermentation. All of the grapes in each site are fermented separately, to maintain the expression of each unique terroir. After fermentation, he ages the Marsanne in neutral oak and the Roussanne in stainless steel. Both wines are left on their lees for six months. This combination of neutral oak, stainless steel and lees contact creates an undeniably delicious wine—unctuous in texture, rich in flavor and incredibly fresh. I am seriously impressed with the depth and layers of texture in this white wine. Robin has really perfected the right techniques to produce a truly memorable white Rhône blend—a wine that really stands out. If you’ve never enjoyed a white wine from the Northern Rhône, the 2012 “Les Marelles” is the perfect opportunity to experience the Crozes-Hermitage appellation.