2019 Gilles Robin Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 'Les Marelles'

60% Roussanne and 40% Marsanne. Organic. Marsanne is aged in oak barrels, Roussanne in stainless steel tanks, for six months with native yeast.

Translucent yellow-gold. High-pitched aromas of fresh orchard fruits and lemon, with a floral nuance emerging from the background. Chewy and focused on the palate, offering lively citrus fruit and Anjou pear flavors and a deeper suggestion of honey coming up with air. Finishes with very good clarity and spicy cut, the floral note repeating. With its bolder style and peachy notes, the Rhône white blend is an awesome match for richer poultry and fish dishes that feature roasted fruit or fruit-based sauces. Roasted veggies will pair well too.

With a family history of winegrowing spanning four generations, Gilles Robin started in the wine business the way many in the Rhône do: His family sold grapes to the local cooperative. Nestled against the hillsides of Hermitage and St. Joseph in the appellation of Crozes–Hermitage, the estate was first planted in the late 1940s by Gilles’ grandparents.The estate now totals 37 acres, including two and a half planted with white varietals and a small parcel of Syrah in St. Joseph. His vines are planted in the stony and sandy La Terrace de Chassis district. An understated, meticulous winemaker, Gilles farms his plots organically, believing this is the best way to honestly give voice to the terroir. Gilles Robin has truly elevated his family estate, producing wines that are powerful, elegant and precise — excellent representations of Crozes–Hermitage.