2012 Hermitage Blanc Selection
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Tasting notes
Mainly from the Maison Blanche bit of the Hermitage hill on loess (on which Paul Jaboulet Ainé base their white Hermitages for freshness, while Chave look for texture instead). Deep honey colour. Both rich and nervy at the same time. Lovely early drinking. Honeyed and almost ready; open and charming but with great undertow. I'm giving it a high score for pleasure but note its relatively short life. Nov 2013, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2015-2020
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Bright yellow. An expressive, complex bouquet displays aromas of mineral-accented orchard fruits and melon, with hints of smoky minerals, herbs and lemon pith in the background. Densely packed pear, Meyer lemon and honey flavors are energized by a note of ginger, showing excellent clarity. Closes with powerful thrust and mineral-driven persistence, leaving notes of fennel and pear skin behind. Feb 2015, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2020-2032
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.