M. Chapoutier : Chante-Alouette 2015

The finest vintage for this cuvée I’ve ever tasted, the sensational 2015 Hermitage Chante Alouette boasts awesome notes of white peach, orange marmalade and white flowers in a rich, full-bodied, concentrated style. Coming from three different terroirs on Hermitage Hill (Méal, Les Murets and Chante Alouette), don’t miss it!

Very fresh, with a honeysuckle-gilded core of white peach, melon rind and Jonagold apple notes. The beguiling finish lets hints of talc and wet stone glide through. Shows lovely purity and serious length. Drink now through 2029. 725 cases imported.

Very fruity, with mango and peach to the fore. Subtle honeyed notes and barley sugar are starting to develop, but it feels like it needs another couple of years for them to fully make themselves known. This has weight and presence on the mid-palate but doesn't feel overly heavy. Expansive, rich and fruit-filled finish. A very full-bodied vintage of Chante-Alouette that will age well. The alcohol is perhaps just a touch more noticeable than a typical vintage, but it's in keeping with the overall style.

This shows a waxy edge with savory hay and grassy notes dominating the nose. The palate has impressive power and poise, a neat mineral thread with apple fruits and a handy texture. Finishes crisp; Drink now until 2025. Again, exclusively marsanne here, this time from quartz-studded clay soils.

A rather restrained aromatic range on the nose. On the palate, it shows dense, rich character, but without excess. The wine retains a firm structure. A cuvée of good stature, worth revisiting.