ERMITAGE

Originating from Côtes du Rhône, the Marsanne Blanche was introduced to the Valais in the nineteenth century. It is known locally as Ermitage. Grown in selected spots with the best exposure, it produces a sumptuous wine with a seductive, sculptural body that is intensely aromatic - with a hint of berries - bold and mellow, Ermitage is found more and more often vinified en sec (sometimes labelled as Marsanne Blanche); some of the crop is harvested late, producing a wine that is well-balanced, deep and smooth. If allowed to evolve over several years, Ermitage develops notes of honey and wax of rare intensity in the bouquet.