| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Rhône > Northern Rhône > Hermitage |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
In the same qualitative ballpark as the Pavillon, the 2020 Ermitage L'Ermite is even tighter and more chiseled. It too is perfectly proportioned and insanely pure, with notes of crème de cassis, burning embers, blueberries, camphor, charcoal, and crushed stone. While the soils here are less granitic than from the Bessards, this cuvée always seems to show even more minerality in every vintage I've tasted. Incredibly concentrated, full-bodied, and yet still flawlessly balanced and elegant, it needs to be hidden in the back of the cellar for 10-15 years and should have 50 years of overall longevity. 2032 - 2070
If you ever wondered why Hermitage had such a special reputation then you need to taste this towering masterpiece of this appellation. Spectacular mountain freshness as well as enormous concentration and underplayed tannic power. The spicy complexity of this wine needs some time to unfold, but that is the best invested time I can imagine. Fabulous mineral freshness at the finish that you don’t ever want to let go of. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.
Compelling scents of roasted meat, espresso and blueberries roar from the glass, joined by a hint of vanilla on the nose of the 2020 Ermitage l'Ermite. A huge behemoth of a wine in the mouth, it's nevertheless an elegant beast that should easily be tamed by a few years in the cellar. Fans of all-out power might prefer this to the Le Pavillon in 2020, but for me, it's a just a neck behind, nipped at the wire.
A fresh, flinty aroma with blackcurrant underneath - enlivening nose. Great harmony, incisive freshness and remarkable drive. The fruit is fresh, pure and concentrated. Totally seamless on the palate, with incredible textural finesse. Very long. A profound Hermitage in the making, perhaps not one of great weight and authority, but one of incredible tension, freshness and precision. If 2019 was Thor, 2020 is Loki. Like all of the 2020 reds, its fruitiness and approachable structure will make many want to drink this young. You can - but this has serious ageing potential.
Drinking Window 2030 - 2055
The inky hued 2020 Ermitage L’Ermite is heavenly stuff, but as usual, it’s not for the instant gratification crowd. It’s also the first vintage where they’ve kept some stems as well, although it’s impossible to tell at this young stage. Vibrant and pure cassis and blue fruits as well as powdered stone and liquid rock-like characteristics define this primordial yet flawlessly put together Hermitage. It has a finish that won’t quit and is another legendary wine from the team at Chapoutier.
