While I will readily admit to Bordeaux sauv blanc/semillon blends as my favorite white wines, Rhone varietals are right up there behind them - my first white wine was a Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, and something about Marsanne/Roussanne just feels so decadent on the palate. Grabbed this particular bottling off of WineBid to continue expanding my knowledge on the region, convinced by the positive reviews here that I had a stunner on my hands. Domaine Monier Perreol, led by Jean-Pierre Monier, grows their grapes biodynamically on a few scant acres - this particular Marsanne bottling is fermented in stainless steel tanks. Stored at 45, popped and poured - paired with a grilled chicken and roasted potatoes lunch.

Visually, a strong golden yellow color.

On the nose, vibrant fresh green apples, candied peaches. Love the stone fruit and orchard fruit I picked up, bit of honeysuckle. Wonderful.

On the palate - BOLD. Lip searing acidity and brutally intense, dry, rich and HOT. Each sip, with a bite of the meal or not, felt like a shot on the way down - and the wine wasn't anywhere near room temp yet! The acidity and alcohol fought for my attention, even with that rich, viscous mouthfeel trying its best to distract me. I know the region's whites run higher alc%, but it's very rare that it's made its presence known so viscerally. Not balanced to my palate, regrettably, despite the wonderful flavors of pears, apples, and apricots - bit of citrus. The finish was also great in length and flavor - even though the burn distracts you from appreciating it.

I struggled with rating this wine, as despite the pleasant nose, decadent mouthfeel and fantastic flavors - I could not get past the heavyweight boxing match between the alcohol and acidity taking place in me. I left it unrated on CT, to let others decide if my notes are to their liking or not in pursuing this bottle. There's plenty more Roussanne/Marsanne/Grenache Blanc/Viognier out there for me to try!