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Tasting notes
Served blind. This tasted like very young Syrah but so much riper than the Clape Cornas 2011 served alongside, I wondered whether it was from somewhere warmer than the northern Rhône – although 2011 was admittedly an exceptional vintage here. As well as the sweetness here was a certain sour fruit character but the super-polished tannins should have given the game away. With time in the glass, the wine's structure made itself felt. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
A structured, almost wiry wine, Chave's 2011 Hermitage remains a bit tight and tannic. That said, it still offers plenty of pleasure and has developed lovely aromas of leather, cured meat, redcurrants and black olives. Medium to full-bodied, with a rich, velvety feel on the finish, it should continue to drink well for at least another decade and probably longer. While it lacks the generosity of the very best vintages, it's a fine expression of Hermitage.
I love the 2011 Hermitage. (This vintage, in general, produced incredibly sexy, flamboyant wines that have drunk well since release.) Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by tons of sweet crème de cassis, peppery spice, sun-dried flowers, and the classic minerality that’s the defining feature of the Bessards lieu-dit that dominates this cuvée. It’s a brilliant wine on all accounts and can be enjoyed any time over the coming three decades.
About the producer
The Chaves have been growing grapes in the Northern Rhône since 1481. Jean-Louis Chave is the 16th generation to head up the family domaine, having taken over from his father in 1992.