A stunning effort, the 2001 Hermitage Ex-Voto blanc is an 8,000-bottle cuvee produced from 50 and 90-year old vines in Les Murets and l’Ermite vineyards; it will only be made in the greatest vintages. Aged in 100% new oak for 18 months, it is a blend of 95% Marsanne and 5% Roussanne. This fabulous white Hermitage ranks alongside Chapoutier’s limited cuvees of Le Meal, l’Ermite, and l’Oree. Guigal’s 2001 Hermitage Ex-Voto offers up stupendous aromas of white peaches, truffles, quince, and a liqueur of stones. This amazing white should drink well young, yet last 2-3 decades. ROBERT PARKER