2022 CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC, L’Espigouette. S. Rhône

70% Viognier with Grenache Blanc and a little Marsanne; a proportion matured for 6 months in large (600 litre) old oak barrels.

Described by agent Jeremy Hunt:
“Each year we are given an impressive tasting by Bernard Latour and his two capable sons Julien (who worked in Australia) and Emilien. Domaine de l’Espigouette has now become an impeccable source of delicious wines which offer very good value. Rendements are kept low, 30-39hl/ha, and they have some 32 hectares including 1.5 hectares in Gigondas. A big new temperature controlled chai was finished just in time for the 2012 vintage. This enables them to have a single bottling for each wine and then to store in perfect conditions. The average age of the vines is not less than 40 years old. Vinification is traditional, in a mix of a little stainless steel and cement vats. Elevage is then in foudres. These are delicious, full-flavoured, old-fashioned, rich and spicy wines.”

Only 13% – this is light and elegant compared to most southern Rhône whites. It’s gently perfumed and very easy on the palate…..