Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Blanc Les Rocoules 2023

Hermitage AOC, Rhône Valley – France

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Description

There are great Hermitage whites — and then there are wines like Les Rocoules.

From a single vineyard planted in 1926, on limestone soils, this cuvée stands as one of the most profound expressions of white Hermitage. A field blend of 90% Marsanne and 10% Roussanne, it captures both the depth and the precision that define the finest wines of the appellation.

The 2023 vintage is nothing short of extraordinary. Aged for 20 months in oak, it reveals a wine of remarkable clarity, energy and structure, where power is seamlessly balanced by finesse.

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100 Points – James Suckling

"The ideal marriage of finesse and controlled power, this has a scented nose of preserved lemons, wild herbs, dried peaches, raw almonds and a subtle touch of mild spices. Medium-bodied with a fresh center-palate of perfectly controlled dried-citrus bitterness touching the silky, almost seamless texture. Harmonious, so flavorful and well-composed, it has perfect balance and a long, long, enchanting finish. From vines planted in 1926. Drink or hold."

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The Wine

Les Rocoules is sourced from century-old vines, planted in 1926, on limestone-rich soils — a rare and privileged terroir within Hermitage.

On the nose, the 2023 is intensely expressive, offering layers of stone fruit, fresh apricot and subtle citrus tones, underpinned by a precise mineral backbone.

The palate is both generous and refined, with fleshy yellow peach fruit, remarkable purity and freshness, and a distinctive twist of Cape gooseberry. The finish is long, mouthwatering and exceptionally balanced, combining richness with tension in a way only the greatest Hermitage whites can achieve.

A wine of depth, harmony and longevity — equally compelling today or after years in bottle.