2023 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Blanc

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....
Incredible flinty intensity on the nose, but also ripe apricots, Mirabelle plums and blanched almonds. Then a giant wave of concentration crashes over the palate, but this is so silky and pristine that you beg it to return. The finish is almost perfect. There’s a hint of bitterness from marsanne. A cuvee of marsanne with a small amount of roussanne based on the Greffieres site from relatively young vines. Drink from release.
99 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com

Almond, brioche and marzipan nose. Full-bodied, very generous, plump and juicy, with quince and pear fruit. Surprisingly ripe, with fairly generous alcohol and only mild acidity but good concentration. Ripe, fresh and powerful. From lieux-dits Les Greffieux (80%) and Les Plantiers (20%); clay and sand soils. Drink 2025-2030.
95 points
Matt Walls - Decanter