The 2022 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Blanc "Les Rocoules" is an extraordinary white Hermitage from one of the appellation's most revered family estates. Produced from the historic Les Rocoules lieu-dit, the wine is crafted predominantly from Marsanne (around 90–95%) with a small proportion of Roussanne, sourced from old vines rooted in clay, limestone and alluvial soils. Fermented slowly in barrel and matured on fine lees, this rare cuvée is produced in tiny quantities, delivering exceptional richness, precision and longevity. The nose is remarkably complex, revealing ripe apricot, yellow peach, mirabelle plum and citrus confit layered with acacia honey, jasmine, brioche, nougat, exotic spice and flinty minerality. Widely acclaimed, the 2022 vintage has received 99 points from James Suckling and 97 points from Vinous.
On the palate, it is full-bodied with a sumptuous, silky texture balanced by remarkable freshness and mineral drive. Layers of stone fruit, quince, marmalade and dried tropical fruit unfold alongside notes of curry spice, roasted nuts and wet stone, leading to an extraordinarily long, powerful finish of immense depth and elegance. Monumental in scale yet beautifully poised, this is one of the Rhône Valley's greatest white wines, with the structure to evolve effortlessly for decades.
Ben's Recommendation:
The 2022 Domaine Marc Sorrel Hermitage Blanc "Les Rocoules" is a magnificent partner for butter-poached lobster, roasted turbot, veal sweetbreads with morels, roast Bresse chicken with cream sauce or aged Comté. Decant for 1–2 hours if enjoying young, or cellar confidently through 2046+, when its extraordinary complexity, texture and mineral finesse will reach even greater heights.
