2017 BILA HAUT COTES DU ROUSSILLON BLANC OCCULTUM LAPIDEM 750ML

93 points Wine Spectator
"A refined, powerful white, with enveloping flavors of almond, white peach and spiced apple infused with wool, baking spice and vivid mineral elements. Dried flowers, heather, matchstick and honey notes mesh together on the long, lingering finish. Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris and Vermentino. Drink now through 2024. 400 cases made, 60 cases imported."

Blend: 70% Grenache blanc, 30% Vermentino. Purchased by Michel Chapoutier in 1999, Bila-Haut is located in the best part of the Languedoc called the Côtes du Roussillon. Historically the site was one of the first areas planted for viticulture by the Greek Mariners and has been continuously a wine region known for making top quality wines. The House of Bila, the translation of the name of the estate, was once a house of refuge for the Knights Templar, which is why their cross is symbolically used on the label. In the hills of the Agly Valley, 40+ year old vines are carefully and meticulously managed by an experienced team of viticulturalists, where sustainable farming and low yields combine to create the highest quality fruit. Wine is made in the vineyards, by paying careful attention to the plants and working alongside nature. The complexity of Bila-Haut reflects the diverse terroirs and the wind of the Midi. By meticulously hand harvesting the best grapes from the best vineyards of the Roussillon, Michel Chapoutier has transformed his magic to the Languedoc and created a wine with finesse. These wines are produced biodynamically and express the best terroir of the region. Occultum Lapidem means “Hidden Gem” in Latin. Tasting notes: A blend of Grenache Blanc and Vermentino, with scents of apple rind, melon rind, lanolin and lemon oil. The palate offers more waves of lanolin, citrus oil and beeswax, with just a hint of toasty character like dried straw and honeycomb cereal.