Finot, Thomas 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Blanc

Thomas Finot, who is making fascinating wines in the Coteaux Grésivaudan in the Isère, makes a tiny quantity of Crôzes-Hermitage Blanc and Rouge.  This beautiful Crôzes Blanc is from 100% Marsanne grown on the family's 1.8 hectare parcel of old vines in Larnage on a hillside with granite and limestone subsoils under interesting soils of white clay (kaolin). It's a great terroir for Marsanne giving a wine that is ripe and concentrated but with a fabulous underlying stone and smoky character.  The aromas are of apricot, peach, mango and Asian fruits with stone and hay, the palate is dense with earth and mineral flavors below the elegant pear and yellow fruits, finishing with stone,  pear and citrus that linger. A great aperitif, this will pair well with any full-flavored seafood dishes, crab and shrimp, also white meats in sauce, goat cheeses and vegetable terrines.