Stephen Brook | Again, some exoticism on the nose, with banana, as well as apricot aromas. Rich and suave, this still retains up-front fruit. It’s not youthful—Marsanne rarely is—but it’s not tiring either. There is a distinct minerality on the finish despite rather low acidity. A lack of length suggests this should now be drunk up, but it still shows some personality and vigor. | 88

Simon Field | Bright green gold, viscous and attractive. Nose of smoky bacon, preserved lemons, and hot-house plants; intriguing. The palate holds up well, the intimations of peat and incense, citric indulgence and spice, never far away. The acidity holds it together well, and the finish is long and lingering. Somewhat unusual but testament to aging potential that one would have been unwise to doubt in this category, unpromising examples to the contrary notwithstanding. | 90

Andrew Jefford | As with [Cuilleron & Chavanay Lieu-Dit Biousse 2015], this is a deep mid-gold but not deeper than that. Actually, an exciting nose here, in addition to being harmonious, with some truffle complexities. More oak, too, than in [Lieu-Dit Biousse 2015], but with time, I have to say, it does all swing together. Lovely honey and almond in addition to what’s just been described. That toasty lime fruit is almost aged Hunter Valley. Concentrated, deep, quite assertive and showing its handling: The oak was obviously too much for the fruit in this case. But worthwhile, worthy, full of fascination, and as with [Lieu-Dit Biousse 2015], this wine proves that the capacity for articulacy and sensual reward in St-Péray merits exploration. | 88