Ermitage, L'Ermite, 2010
Deep, seductive and serious on the nose, notes of spice, earth and minerally rocks with tight-packed concentrated cassis and hedgerow berry fruit, explosive and powerful yet so energetic and tense, great length of flavour, sheer class. The plot is situated at the top of the Hermitage Hill, around the chapel. The elevated position of the vineyard, over 200 metres, allows long ripening at the end of the growing season. The soil of loess provides excellent drainage for rainwater. Vines are over 80 years old and are planted on granitic poor soils. L’Ermite traditionally produces the most elegant and aromatic Ermitage.
critic reviews
Glass-staining purple. Powerful, room-filling aromas of dark fruit liqueur, sandalwood, mocha, licorice and potpourri. Stains the palate with weighty dark berry and bitter cherry flavors, a sappy floral pastille nuance adding an exotic touch. Silky tannins come up with air and build through a remarkably long, chewy, smoke- and spice-accented finish. This wine has gained structure and power since last year and really should be stashed away and forgotten for a good long while.