2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage

Marc Sorrel's tiny domaine in Tain l'Hermitage has long been regarded as one of the hill's most classical producers, working from exceptionally placed parcels that have earned the estate a reputation alongside the leading names of the appellation. Now in the hands of Marc's son Guillaume, the approach remains firmly traditional, defined by whole-cluster ferments, restrained use of new oak and patient élevage that often stretches to two years. Production is extremely small, making the wines highly sought after, and the focus stays squarely on transparent, site-driven expressions in both Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage, including the flagship Le Gréal and the white wines drawn from old Marsanne and Roussanne.

Other Reviews....
Highly textural, well-composed and incredibly fresh, this has aromas of cherries, dried violets, peppercorns and baking spices. Medium-bodied, very refined and layered, showing fine-grained tannins. So much control in this vintage with silk to the crunchy fruit. Lively, bright and pristine. It has a mineral, lingering finish. Drink from 2028.
99 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com

This has some weight, but is relatively juicy, medium-bodied and approachable for a Hermitage. Balanced acidity, good freshness, texture and bite, this needs a little time but not 10 years. Tannic for a 2023. 100% whole bunch, from lieux-dits Les Plantiers and Les Bessards. 10% matured in amphora – new for this vintage. Drink 2030-2039.
95 points
Matt Walls - Decanter

Sorrel’s 2023 Hermitage was crafted from vines planted in the lieux-dits Les Bessards and Les Plantiers on granite soils. Vinified with 100% whole bunches and matured for 18 months, it was neither fined nor filtered. Despite being the most reductive wine in the cellar, it wafts from the glass with aromas of lilac, violet, pepper, dark berries and cassis mingled with licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, it’s built around a seamless core of fruit supported by vibrant acidity. It has a tensile profile derived from whole clusters and is framed by velvety and fresh tannins, concluding with a long, ethereal finish. This is an exquisite wine that should age gracefully over the next two decades and beyond. Drink 2029-2048.
95+ points
Yohan Castaing - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate