Hermitage Rouge, J-L Chave 2006

Superior to the 2007, the 2006 Hermitage reminds me of Chave's brilliant 1991. An incredibly subtle perfume of black raspberries, creme de cassis, camphor, and acacia flowers is followed by an elegant, concentrated wine with beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, wood, and alcohol. This seamless, gorgeously-proportioned, large-framed wine represents the definition of finesse, elegance, and terroir. It will be drinkable in several years, and should last for 20-25 years.

Dark crimson with a ruby rim. Dense and grown-up. Already approachable. Racy and tense. Tastes as though there are lots of little insects scuttling around here! Rich and ripe – just ready to enjoy but clearly with lots of potential. More complex than the Iona Syrah 2014. 14%Drink 2015-2030

I tasted through the cuvees of 2006 Hermitage, and the least of them was probably the elegant Peleat, but it was still outstanding. Several of the cuvees, such as Meal, Bessards, and Les Beaumes, were upper 90-point material. This should turn out to be a great, great vintage for their red Hermitage as it reveals the classic cassis, crushed rock, and pepper characteristics along with enormous power, unctuosity, and richness. Licorice and black olive notes are also apparent. This is a dead-ringer for the 1991 Chave Hermitage, which is drinking spectacularly well today.