Region | |
---|---|
Subregion | France > Rhône > Northern Rhône > Hermitage |
Colour | Red |
Type | Still |
View all vintages of this wine | View all wines by Maison M. Chapoutier
Coming all from the pure granite soils of the Bessards lieu-dit, on the western side of Hermitage, the 2018 Ermitage Le Pavillon is 100% Syrah that was all destemmed and aged 18 months in just 15% new French oak. This beauty has closed down since bottling and will need considerable bottle age, but it’s a beauty. Deep purple-hued, with a meaty, gamey bouquet of black and blue fruits, crushed rock, liquid violets, olives, and acacia flowers, this sensational wine hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a tight, backward mouthfeel, present tannins, and a great finish. As I wrote last year, this isn't for those seeking instant gratification and a solid 7-8 years of bottle age are warranted, but I suspect it will earn a triple-digit score at maturity and should have 40-50 years of longevity.
The 2018 Ermitage Le Pavillon is just as good yet has a more liquid rock-like character that needs to be tasted to be believed. Revealing an inky purple/blue color as well as incredible notes of blueberries, cassis, crushed rock, liquid violets, and new leather, this off-the-charts barrel sample has massive richness and depth, building tannins, and a finish that won't quit. It’s not for those looking for instant gratification but is a legendary Hermitage in the making.