The Guigal Estate was founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in Ampuis, a small ancient village and cradle of the Cote-Rotie appellation. It shelters a unique vineyard where the vines and the wines have been famous for 2,400 years. Arriving in the region in 1924 at the age of 14, Etienne began his career at Vidal-Fleury, participating in its development and working his way up to the position of cellar-master before leaving to establish his own company. He has vinified 67 harvests in Cote-Rotie.

In 1961, although still very young, Marcel Guigal took over management of the establishment from his father who was stricken suddenly with total blindness. In 1973, his wife Bernadette joined him and they worked together to develop the family business. In 1975, their son Philippe was born and is today the estate’s winemaker. With his wife Eve, he represents the third generation to continue the family business, in the service of the great wines of the Rhone Valley.

Their hard work and perseverance enabled them to purchase the Vidal-Fleury Establishment in the mid ‘80s and in 1995, they acquired the famous Chateau d’Ampuis, an ancient fort built in the 12th century, later repurposed into a Renaissance chateau during the 16th century. In a state of neglect and terrible disrepair, Guigal has taken on a colossal renovation, spanning nearly 11 years with over 100 people working on the project.

The Chateau d’Ampuis has become the headquarters of the Guigal Estate while the offices and the cellars remain in the ancient small village of Ampuis. While their vineyards span the length and breadth of what the Rhone Valley offers, the heart of the winery’s production is still Cote-Rotie, whose ultimate expression can be found in Guigal’s most famous releases: La Landonne, La Turque, and La Mouline.

The 2016 Guigal Ermitage Ex Voto Blanc is a remarkable white wine from the esteemed Hermitage appellation in the Northern Rhone region of France. With a beautiful golden hue that sparkles in the glass, this wine is a true gem that showcases the Marsanne varietal at its finest.

On the nose, the 2016 Ex Voto Blanc immediately captivates with its powerful and complex aromas. Classic notes of Asian spices, toasted bread, and acacia flowers dance harmoniously with hints of crushed rocks. The bouquet is further enhanced by an abundance of quince and stone fruit, creating a truly captivating olfactory experience.

As you take your first sip, the full-bodied nature of this wine becomes apparent. It envelops the palate with its multi-dimensional character, offering a velvety texture and a wealth of flavors. Juicy fresh fruit takes center stage, accompanied by spiced vanilla tones that result from 30 months of maturation in new oak barrels coopered at Guigal. The wine's mouthwatering quality is enhanced by a delicate salinity and a nuttiness that perfectly balance the fruitiness.

With every sip, the 2016 Ex Voto Blanc reveals more layers of complexity. An earthy savor grounds the wine, adding depth and intrigue. The impeccable structure and balance of this wine suggest that it has the potential to evolve gracefully for the next 20-25 years or even longer.

Renowned wine critics have praised the 2016 Guigal Ermitage Ex Voto Blanc. Jeb Dunnuck bestowed a remarkable score of 97 points, declaring it "brilliant" and "impossible to resist." Wine & Spirits awarded it 96 points, applauding its power and potential for further development. James Suckling was equally impressed, giving it 95 points and commending its intensity and poise. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded it 95+ points, emphasizing its deep flavors and aging potential.

For wine enthusiasts seeking a white wine that embodies elegance, complexity, and the unmistakable terroir of the Rhone region, the 2016 Guigal Ermitage Ex Voto Blanc is a true masterpiece that should not be missed. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for decades to come, it promises to deliver an extraordinary drinking experience.