2014 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave L'Hermitage Rouge Rhone Valley

Winemaker Notes: Generally 100% destemmed, as the Hermitage is meant to be about the expression of the individual vineyards and soils and Jean Louis believes that stems have a tendency to level out the differences. Fermentation in wood tonneaux and stainless steel tanks. Aged in barriques for 30 months.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "White peach, grilled hazelnuts and plenty of yellow citrus fruits with dried meadow flowers. The palate has impressive glycerol-laden texture. Lemon and lime citrus ride on a smooth and expansive mid-palate. Peach and peach skin flavors and a sapid, taut finish. A real masterpiece. Best from 2020."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "As normal, I was able to taste the 2014 Hermitage in its individual components, with the Bessards and l'Hermite (which are the backbone of the cuvee) both showing full-bodied richness, plenty of mid-palate depth and no shortage of tannic grip. The Méal is always the most jammy and forward, and is easily the most identifiable given its sexy, supple texture, although it never has the definition or cut of the Bessards. The Peleat and Beaume barrels are normally smaller components in the final blend, with the Beaume always showing the most spice-laced and perfumed of the two. The 2014 shows the house elegance and purity, yet has solid ripeness and texture. All of the samples had solid tannic grip, but the overall impression was much more forward and approachable than the 2013, and I suspect it will be relatively accessible with short term cellaring. Range:94-96"


Wine Spectator - "This starts strong, with warm ganache, steeped fig and crushed blackberry flavors, then gains steam, picking up smoldering charcoal, bay leaf and juniper accents as this drives and expands through the finish. Offers a long echo of graphite, with the fruit keeping pace. Very impressive for the vintage. Best from 2020 through 2040."