Crozes Hermitage blanc, Aux Bêtises AOP 2023

Wine description for Crozes Hermitage blanc, Aux Bêtises AOP 2023 by Les Bruyères

Colour & Appearance

Pale gold, luminous and clear in the glass – a promising first impression for a young white wine from the northern Rhône.

Nose

Extraordinarily elegant and multifaceted: The bouquet is characterised by jasmine, lily of the valley and roses – a floral aromatics rarely found so delicately in Marsanne-Roussanne cuvées of this quality. Beneath lie subtle notes of pineapple, yellow apples and pears, complemented by white tea and a subtle parsnip note that lends depth and complexity.

Palate

On the palate, the wine displays fullness and ripeness, yet with precise definition – not a trace of heaviness. Aromas of quince and apples dominate, accompanied by liquorice and beeswax. A slightly buttery texture caresses the tongue, whilst spicy and savoury notes provide tension. The balance between power and freshness is remarkable – a wine that unites substance with vibrancy.

Finish

Persistent and fresh, with lingering floral and fruity notes. The moderate alcohol content of 12.5% vol. contributes to the elegance and drinkability.

Terroir & Origin

The vines are rooted in clay and limestone terraces in Beaumont-Monteux, one of the finest terroirs for white Crozes-Hermitage. The limestone-rich subsoil imparts the wine’s mineral freshness and precision. With only 45 hl/ha yield, the winery Les Bruyères deliberately prioritises quality over quantity.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A classic cuvée of 75% Marsanne and 25% Roussanne. Following complete destemming and gentle pressing, spontaneous fermentation took place. The eight-month maturation in two-thirds Ovoïde (egg-shaped concrete vessel) and one-third Pièce Bourguignonne (Burgundy oak barrel) imparts the wine’s complex texture without obtrusive oak notes.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A versatile companion: scallops with saffron sauce, veal schnitzel with morels, grilled turbot, Comté or Beaufort cheese. Also an excellent choice with asparagus with hollandaise sauce or risotto with lemon and herbs.

Special Features

The wine’s name „Aux Bêtises“ („At the Follies“) hints at the winery’s playful philosophy. The combination of traditional vinification and modern maturation vessels such as the Ovoïde demonstrates both craftsmanship and experimental spirit.