JL Chave Hermitage blanc 2012

The ingredient from Péléat was in tank and had lovely honey and blossom scents as well as real excitement on the palate. The Rocoule portion, also from tank, was less aromatic but had great tension and considerable substance. L’Hermite tasted from cask was splendidly dense and rich with a slightly cheesy nose but masses of tension. ‘To understand Hermitage Blanc, you have to be a gastronome’, says J L Chave.

Very expansive nose of peach, tangerine and a touch of smoke. On the palate, the wine expresses all its richness. Viscous juice, with very marked aromas of peach and mandarin which largely dominate. However, with warming, the wine appears clumsy, with an acidity that is difficult to contain and revive this exuberant juice. Good finish on honey and a hint of spice over a long length. (2024)

Drink: now-2035