2017 Domaine Jean Louis Chave, Hermitage, Rouge 1×1.5L

Robert Parker 97

I tasted five components that Jean-Louis expects will represent about 80% of the volume of his 2017 Hermitage. Les Beaumes was unbelievably seductive and enveloping, redolent of red fruit and flowers (96 – 98). Peleat was similar in style but less expansive (94 – 96). L’Hermite was a monument to crushed stone, simultaneously dense yet light (98 – 100). Le Meal was open, ripe, red berried but perhaps lacking a bit of structure (94 – 96). Les Bessards (the largest component in most years) was a near-perfect blend of flowers, fruit and stones (97 – 99). [Joe Czerwinski, 09/11/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2040

Vinous 96+

#1) Beaumes: Seductively perfumed red fruit qualities on the nose and palate. In a silky, vaguely Burgundian style, as usual, with seamless texture and strong mineral and floral notes driving the finish. #2) Peleat: From 80+ year old vines. Bright and energetic, showing high-pitched red fruit and violet scents and flavors, a touch of spiciness, steadily building mineral character. Powerful yet lithe, with a mineral-drenched finish that leaves black raspberry and floral pastille notes behind. #3) Ermite: Assertive, highly complex aromas of fresh black and blue fruits, licorice candy and potpourri, with mineral and spice notes in the background. #4) Méal: Displays extroverted, mineral-accented blueberry, cassis, cherry and exotic spice aromas and flavors. A suave violet pastille nuance builds steadily with air. Distinctly rich but the main quality that I get here is balance and finesse. Blends power and delicacy smoothly, with rounded tannins and no rough edges. #5) Bessards: Mineral-accented blackberry and blueberry on the nose, with exotic spice and floral notes adding complexity. Densely packed dark fruit preserve flavors pick up smoky bacon and candied violet accents and show excellent clarity, building tannins and superb, minerally finishing thrust. [Josh Raynolds, 07/18/2019]