2014 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc

The Chaves have been growing vines on the famous Hermitage hill for over 500 years. Gérard Chave took over from his father in 1970 and rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. The estate is currently under the helm of University of California Davis graduate Jean Louis Chave , although his father Gerard still plays an active role. The domaine produces a red St Joseph 'Offerus' (made in equal proportions from senior vines in Mauves and St -Jean-de Muzols), an acclaimed Vin de Paille, but their reputation is built on their superb red Hermitage (Syrah with the addition of 15% white grapes) and white Hermitage (85% Marsanne and 15% Roussanne).This extraordinary 2014 Hermitage Blanc is made from 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne, from the lieux-dits of Rocoules, Peleat, L'Hermite and Maison Blanche. It's raised primarily in barrels with a small percentage new.