2018 Domaine Jean Louis Chave, Hermitage, Rouge 1×1.5L

Robert Parker 99

Chave’s 2018 Hermitage is another in a long list of legends to emerge from this meticulously run estate. Showing remarkably complex aromas of pressed violets, ground cloves and cracked peppercorns against a backdrop of cassis, blueberries and licorice, it’s a super effort. Full-bodied, concentrated, rich and velvety in feel, it’s seamless and long—just the complete package in a wine that’s surprisingly approachable, yet should prove capable of aging effortlessly for two decades or more. [Joe Czerwinski, 01/05/2022]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2045

Vinous 97

Opaque ruby. Powerful, smoke- and spice-accented black and blue fruit, exotic spice, olive, cured tobacco, cured bacon and violet aromas show superb clarity and a bright mineral top note. Deeply concentrated and broad on the palate, offering sappy, alluringly sweet cherry, blackcurrant, fruitcake, salty olive and violet pastille flavors plus hints of licorice and allspice. The wonderfully long, penetrating finish features resonating mineral, spice and floral notes and chewy tannins that build steadily. [Josh Raynolds, 12/22/2022]

Anticipated maturity: 2029-2041