The producer
Would there be a modern Rhone wine industry without Etienne Guigal? Founded in 1946 it has certainly been the success story for the region with holdings from Cote Rotie in the north through to Cotes-du Rhone in the south. Guigal sells over 4 million bottles a year!
Guigal made his reputation initially with stunning wines from Cote Rotie – which not only made his name but also, in a way, that of the whole appellation. This success allowed them to expand throughout the Rhone, buying and reviving old domaines and vineyards.
The wines they make throughout the Rhone Valley are examples of quality and consistency, none less so than their Hermitages – white and red. As with their Cote-Rotie’s they use a considerable amount of new oak and their wines are of equally resplendent character.
The wine
Guigal Hermitage Ex Voto is produced from about 2.2 hectares of vineyards in Bessards, Greffieux, Murets, and Hermite. On average vines are over 40 years old and the wine is allowed to age for 30-36 months in 100% new French oak barrels. In recent years though, the new oak regime has been reduced and the Ex Voto as a result has taken on more freshness.
