2019 Domaine Belle "Les Terres Blanches" Crozes-Hermitage Blanc

Coming from more limestone soils and 70% Marsanne and 30% Roussanne, the 2019 Crozes-Hermitage Les Terres Blanches is a crisp, beautifully balanced white with classy notes of quince, white flowers, honeysuckle, and green almonds. Playing in the more subtle, elegant end of the spectrum, it still has beautiful depth and richness as well as length. I'd certainly be happy to have it at the dinner table. (4/2021)

The roots of the Belle family run deep in Hermitage and extend back to the 18th century when the family began acquiring vines in the region. When descendant Louis Belle assumed control of the property he preferred tending vines over making wine. In 1933, he became one of the founding members of the Cave de Tain, the local cooperative. It was not until 2003 when grandson Philippe began making wines for the domaine. The property has 25 hectares of vines planted across Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage and St-Joseph, along with apricot orchards and a vine nursery tended by Philippe's brother, Jean-Claude. The vineyards were certified organic in 2014. The Terres Blanches is a blend of 70% Marsanne and 30% Roussanne planted on clay-limestone soils in the Larnage lieu-dit. It is aged in a mix of oak (some new) and stainless steel vats. Larnage whites have a fresh and inviting style that distinguish them from other Crozes whites.