1996 Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne
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Tasting notes
The 1996 Hermitage La Sizeranne exhibits a saturated dense purple color, a classic, smoky, cassis-scented nose, and fresh acidity nicely meshed with the wine's rich, concentrated black fruit character and high tannin. This full-bodied, muscular, backward La Sizeranne requires patience. It is aged all in cask, of which 50% were new. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Ruby-red. Raw crushed berries, black cherry, shoe polish and pepper on the nose, plus an intriguing vegetal note that adds to its complexity. Sweet and supple in the mouth; again, a fruit-driven style of syrah but a distinct step up in texture and concentration from some of the other Chapoutier '96s. Solidly structured, with rather strong acidity and substantial tongue-dusting tannins. Finishes quite firm, with notes of violet and pepper.