By Chateau l'Ermite d'Auzan
Costieres de Nimes

Grapes
60% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Viognier

History
Chateau l'Ermite d'Auzan was founded in the 11th century by the Eremites of Ste Cecile d'Estagel Abbay. It is situated on the pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostella. The estate's total surface covers 80 hectares of sunny south-facing vineyards, which benefit from the airy Mediterranean climate. Michel and Jerome Castillon, the estate's owners, are counted amongst the Rhone Valley's most dynamic and talented winegrowers. Their work allows grapes to breathe out, and the use of oak for aging is restricted as much as possible. Respect for the environment is a priority for the Chateau l'Ermite. The conversion to organic farming and biodynamic farming accredits their daily respect for the soil and the plant.

Vineyard
Saint-Gilles. South-facing slopes of the Costieres de Nimes. The Costieres de Nimes is situated in the Rhone Valley's most southern part, on the opposite bank of the Rhone with regards to Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Rolled Durance pebbles (the Durance river flowed through the valley well before the Rhone). Twenty-year-old vines across 15 acres, with an average yield of 50 hl/ha.

Winemaking
Cooling of the harvest immediately on reception of the grapes (reduction of 54 degrees F). Cooling of the must for natural clarification. Vinification at a low temperature (60 degrees F). Aging on fine lees for three months.

Tasting Notes
A perfect balance between the freshness of the Grenache Blanc and the acidity of the Roussanne grape. It is rare to find a white wine from the South of France with such a good acidity level.

Food Pairing
As an aperitif, but also with asparagus, fish, white meat 'a la creme,' or veal chops 'forestiere.'
[Information provided by DHI Selections]

CHATEAU L'ERMITE D'AUZAN Costieres de Nimes Blanc 2020
Rating: 91
Value: $35
Drink: 2021-2023
Country: France
Region: Rhone
Appellation: Costieres de Nimes
Editor: J. D'Angelo
Issue: September, 2021
Importer: Fruit of the Vines
The 2020 Costieres de Nimes Blanc from Chateau L'Ermite D'auzan is composed of Roussanne (60%) the remaing equal parts Viognier and Grenache Blanc. The aromas are expressive, especially when allowed a bit of air contact. There are nuances of golden apple, pear, citrus, almond and wild flowers, which all take shape beautifully in the glass. On the palate this possesses a lovely texture and excellent balance which persist all the way through the finish.

CHATEAU L'ERMITE D'AUZAN Costieres de Nimes White 2020
Score: 88
Region: France / Southern Rhone / Costieres de Nimes
Color: White
Issue: Oct 15, 2021
Very fresh, with racy-edged star fruit, white peach and chamomile notes that stay breezy through the finish. Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Viognier. Drink now. -- JM