2023 Chave - Hermitage Rouge (750ml)

Domaine Jean-Louis Chave is the benchmark producer of the northern Rhône, with the family farming vines on the hill of Hermitage since 1481, spanning sixteen generations. Jean-Louis Chave now leads the estate, working organically across a patchwork of prized parcels that have made the domaine's name synonymous with the appellation's finest expression of Syrah.

The Hermitage Rouge draws on old vines from multiple lieux-dits across the hill, each with its own character: Bessards contributes a granitic, structured core, Méal brings richness and breadth from looser alluvial soils, Beaumes offers lighter, more fruit-forward notes from its sandy stretch, and L'Hermite adds minerality and precision from its mix of granite and loess near the chapel at the summit. Grapes are generally fully destemmed to preserve the distinct personality of each site, fermented traditionally with long maceration, then aged around 18 to 24 months in large, mostly neutral oak before the final blend is assembled.

The 2023 is elegant and expressive, with aromas of dark berries, incense, violet, dark cherry, and tapenade. Full-bodied yet satiny, it shows a deep, concentrated core built around refined tannins and lively acidity, finishing long and perfumed. Though approachable young, it has the structure to reward extended cellaring. Pair it with roast game, braised short rib, or a well-seasoned steak.