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1990 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage #265666522
Reviews 96 points Vinous "Initially rather austere, the 1989 Hermitage blossoms beautifully with a bit of time in the glass as it gains depth, volume and complexity. The aromatics and overall vibrancy are just captivating. (AG)" 96 points John Gilman "The majestic bouquet soars from the glass in a melange of black raspberries, cassis, black olives, hot stones, tobacco smoke, earth and a touch of La Mission-like chipotle pepper. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, pure and minerally, with fine focus, great depth in the mid-palate, ripe tannins, solid acidity, and great length and grip on the profound finish. (JG)"
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About Domaine Jean-Louis Chave
Rooted in the esteemed heritage of Hermitage, Domaine Jean-Louis Chave is helmed by an indomitable figure, Jean-Louis Chave. A significant landowner in the region, Jean-Louis stewards 15 hectares of Syrah, Marsanne, and Roussanne vines organically, nestling on Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and St. Joseph's coveted granite and clay/limestone soils.
Having assumed command of the family's estate in the 1990s, Jean-Louis has adopted traditional methods in the cellar to respect the estate's legacy. By meticulously controlling the process, from cooling and de-stemming about 80% of the harvest to aging wines for up to 18 months in oak barrels apt for each vintage, Jean-Louis delivers expressive wines, both whites and reds, that offer profound minerality and potential for aging.
The essence of Chave's Hermitage lies in their unparalleled blending skills. Each season marks a fresh start, weaving a distinct narrative of balance through Hermitage Rouge's constant backbone, Syrah from Bessards Vineyard, and old vines Marsanne from Péléat Vineyard, forming the foundation for the Blanc. An element of Roussanne is also introduced to the final blend, amplifying the wines' complexity.
Apart from their benchmark Hermitage wines, Chave also produces an exquisite St. Joseph rouge. The family also offers the more accessible Jean-Louis Chave Selections line, which includes the "Mon Coeur" Côtes-du-Rhône and "Silène" Crozes-Hermitage, maintaining their unparalleled standard even at the entry level.
Jean-Louis’s meticulous approach in his vineyards extends to his project of rejuvenating abandoned hillside vineyards in St. Joseph, which now significantly contribute to the Jean-Louis Chave Selection label. This dedication and perseverance cement Domaine Jean-Louis Chave as a beacon of the purest expression of Northern Rhône terroir.