1985 Domaine Jean Louis Chave, Hermitage, Rouge 1x750ml

Robert Parker 89

Tasted at the Chave dinner at Cafe Anglais. There is a slight taint on the nose: sous-bois, quite tertiary, more of the old-style Chave. The palate is medium-bodied, a little rustic, gamey with notes of sour cherry, plum and white pepper. It has an attractive fleshy texture toward the finish, though only moderate length. Very fine, but not in the same class as modern-day Chaves. Drink now-2015. Tasted March 2009. [Neal Martin, 03/01/2009]

Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015

Vinous 91

Moderately saturated medium red. Maturing aromas of grilled game, smoke and vanilla, along with a lively floral nuance. Sweet, bright red fruit flavors supported by sound acidity. Has more vivacity than all but the finest 1985 Burgundies. Chave says this is just embarking on its plane of peak drinkability and will become even suppler with more bottle age, but I’d drink it over the next several years for its freshness and fruit. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/07/1999]