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2020 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage #204378896
750ml
Reviews 93-98 points Wine Advocate "Readers will note that the score range I've provided for Chave's 2020 Hermitage is much broader than typical. That's because my ratings for the numerous barrel samples tasted varied considerably, with one lot scoring as low as (91 - 93), while others were near-perfect (98 - 100). I should be able to provide a more precise picture following my next visit, but it was clear to me that?even more than usual?much will depend on Jean-Louis's skills at selection and blending. From the soft, elegant and red-fruited Peleat to the commanding, dark-fruited and mineral-laden Bessards?and the silky, finesseful and raspberry-laden Le Meal in between?there's no doubt a fine expression of Hermitage will eventually emerge from Chave's cellars. (JC)" 97-99 points Vinous "There's intense dark fruit, suave floral and exotic spice character and a deep, energizing core of minerality, plus hints of olive, botanical herbs, licorice and smoked meat. But ultimately, it mainly focuses on powerful, vibrant fruit and floral qualities, making it a particularly elegant rendition of the appellation. (JR)"
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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.