Ermitage Le Pavillon, Maison M. Chapoutier 2021

Welcome to the seductively dark and smoky heart of Hermitage. Enormously rich and spicy, with great blackberry fruit plus a touch of red beets, then the very bright and pure tannins charge through, followed by the mineral acidity that sets the sky alight at the extremely long and linear finish. How could you resist this beauty that is simultaneously so deep and playful? Great aging potential. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

In comparison to the more expansive Le Méal, the 2021 Ermitage Le Pavillon is deeper and more concentrated, with more edge to its tannins as well as medium to full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Coming all from the granite soils of the Bessards lieu-dit, its deep purple hue is followed by textbook notes of pure cassis, cracked pepper, iron, and burning embers. I don't think any of the 2021s will demand extended cellaring, but this will require at least 3-5 years. It's a brilliant Hermitage.