In Bond Fine Wine. 2018 J-L Chave Hermitage Rouge, Hermitage, Rhone, France. Red Rhone in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 97–98/100 (JRY). Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Josh Raynolds (JRa) — 97–98/100 · Vinous, 01/05/2020
Tasted in components. #1, from Peleat: suave and highly perfumed, with distinct red fruit preserve and floral character. Smooth, seamless and almost Pinot-like in its vibrant and weightless character. Extremely well-hidden tannins come in late. #2, from Les Beaume; #3, from Ermite, #4, from Meal, #5, from Bessards.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD) — 100/100 · JebDunnuck.com
I was blown away by the 2018 Hermitage from barrel, and it unquestionably doesn't disappoint from bottle. Reminding me slightly of the 2009, it possesses off-the-charts richness and depth, but like all great wines, stays pure, balanced, and light on its feel. Extraordinary notes of cassis, blue fruits, graphite, violets, and flowers define the bouquet, and this full-bodied, layered, multi-dimensi…