Chapoutier Ermitage L'Ermite Rouge 2011 (750ML)

98+ WA / 97 WS

As expected, the 2011 Ermitage lErmite, which comes from the lieu-dit of the same name, is more backward and focused, with a slightly closed, tight profile. Slowly giving up ample cassis and black raspberry fruit, graphite, licorice and edgy minerality, it is full-bodied, deeply concentrated and tannic, yet still never puts a foot wrong and is perfectly balanced and seamless. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following two decades or more. - Jeb Dunnuck

Tightly coiled, with a briary frame around a core of intense steeped plum, red currant and black cherry fruit. An iron spine drives the focused finish. A wine of cut and precision that will need time to stretch out fully. Best from 2016 through 2030. - James Molesworth