Marlène & Nicolas Chevalier Hauts de Motte Roussanne 2018 Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône, France 75cl

Marlène and Nicolas Chevalier farm a small, closely tended domaine in Crozes-Hermitage, where the family has grown vines for generations. They work the three traditional grapes of the northern Rhône: Syrah for reds, and Marsanne and Roussanne for whites, making a number of wines in tiny lots from individual sites.

Hauts de Motte is made entirely from Roussanne, the more aromatic and textural of the two white grapes, grown here on limestone soils. It is a single-varietal white made in small quantities from an identified site rather than a large blend, which gives it a clear sense of place.

The 2018 vintage in the northern Rhône was warm and generous, giving ripe, rounded whites with good depth. That ripeness suits Roussanne, which can deliver richness and body when the fruit ripens fully, while the limestone helps keep the wine fresh.

Expect apricot, honey and a gentle nutty note over a broad, textural palate, kept in balance by fresh acidity. It is a white with weight and character rather than simple crispness, and it rewards a little time in the glass. Serve it cool rather than cold.

Crozes-Hermitage Blanc is one of the northern Rhône’s quiet pleasures, and this is a characterful, site-specific example. If you like white Rhône blends or fuller southern French whites, it will appeal. It has enough weight to partner richer dishes, yet stays fresh enough for everyday drinking, which makes it an easy white to keep on hand. Serve it with roast chicken, creamy pasta or soft cheeses.