E Guigal Ermitage Ex Voto Blanc 2018

Winery Background and History:

E Guigal was founded in 1946 by Étienne Guigal in Ampuis in the Northern Rhône. A family‑owned maison now led by Philippe Guigal, it brought global renown to Côte‑Rôtie and Hermitage through singular, terroir‑driven wines. The Ex Voto Blanc is produced only in exceptional vintages from select ancient vineyards on Hermitage’s south‑facing granite slopes. This wine embodies Guigal’s dedication to quality and prestige, aged exclusively in new oak to express power, depth and age‑worthiness

Producer and Wine Maker:

Crafted under Marcel Guigal and Philippe Guigal’s direction the 2018 Ex Voto Blanc comes from a 2.2‑ha plot in Murets and Hermite lieux‑dits. Fermentation occurs in new French oak barrels followed by 30‑month élevage with 100 % malolactic fermentation. Limited production underscores its stature as one of Rhône’s most exclusive white wines 

Vineyards and Micro Climate:

Vines aged 40–90 years on steep granite and alluvial soils with stones clay and sand receive intense southern Rhône sun tempered by mistral winds. This ensures ripe fruit balanced by minerality. The 2018 vintage featured a hot dry summer ideal for concentrated white Hermitage 

Vinification & Aging Methods:

Grapes are fermented and aged entirely in new French oak barrels with full malolactic fermentation. The wine undergoes around 30‑month élevage before bottling to achieve richness structure and aging capacity 

Tasting Notes:

Light golden hue followed by an intense nose of quince honeyed minerality toasted spice grilled lemons hay and pears. The palate is full‑bodied silky and layered with beeswax baked citrus almond and spring flower nuances that showcase both purity and power 

Food & Wine Pairing:

Pairs beautifully with rich seafood such as lobster and scallops as well as creamy poultry dishes, pork, veal and mature cheese. The wine’s weight and complexity complement nuanced flavors

Service Methods and Temperatures:

Serve at 12 °C in large white‑wine glasses. To best reveal aromas and texture open bottle 15 minutes before serving. No decanting required

Storage and Aging Potential:

Cellared at 10–12 °C with controlled humidity and darkness this wine will evolve gracefully through 2040 developing honeyed, nutty, spice and flint notes as oak integrates further

Grape Varietals & percentage used:

Marsanne 90 % · Roussanne 10 % 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume):

14 – 14.5 % ()

Scores:

Jeb Dunnuck 100 points

Decanter 96 points

James Suckling 93 points

Robert Parker Wine Advocate 93 points