2017 M. Chapoutier, Saint-Joseph, Granits Blanc

Pale yellow. Intense, mineral-dominated nectarine, pear nectar, chamomile and fennel qualities on the nose, along with a sexy floral topnote that expands with aeration. Seamless, concentrated and lively on the palate, offering powerful white peach, tangerine, Anjou pear and honeysuckle flavors. Focus and mineral lift are carried through an impressively persistent finish that features suggestions of Meyer lemon and sweet butter.

Scents of crushed stone and scorched earth mark the nose of the 2017 Saint-Joseph Les Granits Blanc, a pure, barrel-fermented Marsanne offering from the decomposed granite slopes of the Saint-Joseph lieu-dit. Grilled tangerines, hints of bergamot and honey appear on the palate, although the rich, medium to full-bodied wine is clearly dry, with a lingering, citrusy finish.