2016 Hermitage
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Full bottle a modest 1,275 g. Apparently yields in 2016 were barely half those in 2015. The cuvée known as Classique though it's not on the label. Transparent garnet with a clear rim. Gorgeous richness and firmness yet this is eminently drinkable even with tonight's roast duck. Tannins are evident only on the very end – and will presumably fade into the background once paired with fatty duck. Great balance and rigour with a light dustiness on the finish but very pure fruit. Integrity, sweet and salt – what's not to like? Though much more accessible than some Hermitages. (JR)
Critic scores
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Purchased from a shop in the U.S., the 2016 Hermitage is a classic wine from this estate with a wild, gamey, incredibly exotic style. Revealing a deeper ruby/purple hue to go with great notes of liquid violets, pepper, smoked game, cedarwood, and ample minerality, it has beautiful cassis and blueberry fruits, medium to full-bodied richness, lots of tannins, and a great finish. With brilliant purity of fruit and impressive overall balance, this is old-school Hermitage all the way. This beautiful, elegant, yet structured Hermitage needs at least 7-8 years of bottle age and is going to keep for 30+ years or more.
Inky ruby. Ripe black currant, cherry liqueur, licorice and olive on the deeply perfumed nose, along with cracked pepper and floral nuances that gain strength as the wine stretches out. Weighty and broad in the mouth, offering densely packed, spice-tinged black and blue fruit liqueur flavors and hints of candied flowers and bitter chocolate. In a distinctly rich style, showing strong closing thrust, steadily building tannins and resonating licorice and floral qualities.
From barrel, the 2016 Hermitage is impressive. Produced from yields of only 20 hectoliters per hectare, it’s more concentrated than normal, showing intense dark fruit and firm tannins.