2016 Hermitage

Opaque ruby. Deep-pitched cherry, blackberry and incense aromas are complemented by smoky mineral and spice nuances. Broad, sappy black and blue fruit flavors show an outstanding blend of power and finesse, and a sexy floral pastille nuance builds in the glass. Impressively lively for its heft thanks to a core of juicy acidity that adds nervy back-end cut. Finishes very long and sweet, with supple tannins coming in late.

80% Marsanne (over 50 years old), 20% Roussanne (over 40 years old). Terroir: Pierrelles, Beaume, Murets. Ageing: 24 months in new and one-year-old oak (Allier – Tronçais – Jupilles). Deep yellowy straw. Too dense to have that much aroma at this point. But there is fabulous structure. Rich limey fruit on the palate within a framework of gingery richness. This should really blossom. Very serious stuff. Long. (JR)