2024 E. Guigal Cotes-du-Rhone Blanc, Northern Rhone

E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a beautifully composed white that offers a clear window into the Northern Rhône style, balancing generosity, freshness and quiet complexity. While the Côtes du Rhône appellation spans a broad area, Guigal’s blanc leans strongly toward the Northern Rhône ethos, built around varieties like Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne, grown on granite influenced soils that deliver texture and aromatic lift.

E. Guigal is one of the Rhône Valley’s most important producers, founded in 1946 and still family run. The house is famous for its obsessive attention to detail, even at this level. Fruit is carefully selected, yields are controlled, and the winemaking is precise. Fermentation and élevage are handled to preserve varietal character, with oak used judiciously to add shape and depth rather than dominate.

In the glass, the wine is aromatic yet composed. White peach, apricot and pear lead, followed by citrus blossom, honeysuckle and a gentle almond note. With air, subtle spice and a faint mineral edge emerge, giving the wine more than just primary fruit appeal.

On the palate, it is rounded and textural but held in balance by fresh acidity. Stone fruit and orchard fruit flavours glide across the mid palate, supported by a soft, almost creamy mouthfeel. The finish is clean, gently savoury and persistent, with hints of almond and citrus peel lingering.

This is a highly versatile white at the table. It pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roast chicken, Mediterranean dishes or lightly spiced food. Best enjoyed young for its vibrancy and balance, E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a confident, polished expression of Rhône white wine that consistently overdelivers for its level.