2002 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc
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Tasting notes
Subdued but pure aromas of ginger, white flowers and menthol. Very tightly wound and citric; almost hard-edged for a young Chave white wine. All edges now and difficult to taste, especially following the 2003. Quite strict and uncompromisingly dry (actually under one gram of residual sugar), but very long and subtle. Chave says this is much richer than it's showing today.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2002 Hermitage blanc exhibits abundant amounts of acacia flowers, honeyed citrus, and a hint of orange marmalade in a ripe, elegant, medium-bodied style. Because of its low acidity, it is best consumed during its first 5-7 years of life. What Chave accomplished in the extremely challenging 2002 vintage is unquestionably noteworthy. Not because of tiny yields and small grapes, but due to Chave’s decision to eliminate every grape except the very best, 2002 is a small crop. Importers: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524 and Langdon Shiverick, Cleveland, OH; tel. (216) 861-6800. Note: Importers are in the process of changing.
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.