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Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Sadly, the 1978 Hermitage is corked, something that is more obvious with the passage of time. What a shame.
This has always been one of Chave's single greatest vintages, possibly equaled in recent years by 1989, 1991, 1994, and 1995, and possibly surpassed by 1990. Memorizing its aromas, its flavors, its texture, and its length is a quick education in what great wine is all about. Still an infant, with a murky, dark ruby/garnet color, this wine offers a smoky, tar, cassis, herb, and grilled meat set of aromatics, huge body, and mouth-searing tannin. This remains a very youthful wine-after nearly two decades of cellaring! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2025. Last tasted 11/95.
Woody, ungenerous and sweet but not especially attractive. Very dry finish. (I tasted this wine again a few years later and it was still very obdurate.) (JR)
About the producer
The Chaves have been growing grapes in the Northern Rhône since 1481. Jean-Louis Chave is the 16th generation to head up the family domaine, having taken over from his father in 1992.