M. Chapoutier Ermitage L'Ermite 2019

Marked by sensationally deep notes of crushed stone, cassis and blueberry, the 2019 Ermitage l'Ermite is a tremendous effort and a worthy rival to the wines produced in the past four vintages. Full-bodied, it's rich and restrained, expansive yet structured—just a complete wine from mouthwatering aromas to velvety mouthfeel and long, stony finish. While delicious now, I'd expect it to close up shortly, yet still be going strong two decades from now. Wow!

Incredibly dense elderberry fruit with raw-meat, smoked-bacon, balsamic-vinegar, mushroom and tar aromas. But there are plenty of other nuances in this astonishing Hermitage! Gigantic fine tannins support the wide-screen palate that’s packed to the brim with richness, yet remains so bright and clean. Stunning stony minerality at the almost endless finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drinkable now, but best from 2027.

Driving sparky freshness, it seems to explode from the glass. This smells somehow salty, mineral, very intense, so straight and energetic with a thrilling tension. This has an incredible, soaring power with textural finesse and freshness and extraordinary depth. A majestic wine which will be long lived. Yes, the acidity is low, but it's like saying Elvis was overweight. Elvis is still the King. Chapoutier has 1.7ha of Syrah planted in this lieu-dit, compared to 0.5ha of Marsanne. 20% new oak.

Pure cassis, violets, blackberries, burning embers, and an insane amount of minerality define the 2019 Ermitage L'Ermite, a full-bodied, powerful, backward, primordial Hermitage. As usual, it’s more inward and reserved compared to the Pavillon, yet it’s a huge wine that has masses of tannins, incredible purity, fine tannins, and a great, great finish.