Hermitage La Sizeranne, Maison M. Chapoutier 2017

The 2017 Hermitage Monier De La Sizeranne can be thought of as the entry-level Hermitage, yet it's no lightweight, wussy of a wine and has fabulous Hermitage aromatics of crème de cassis, graphite, acacia flowers, and crushed stones. Rich, medium to full-bodied, and beautiful on the palate, it has incredible tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. This is pure class, and certainly not far off the top wines. It will keep for 25+ years.

Scents of cassis and red currants emerge on the nose of the 2017 Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne, a blend of fruit from across the entire face of Hermitage (but all from Chapoutier's own vineyards). It's full-bodied and concentrated, with a density not always found in this cuvée. Tannic and chewy yet mouthwatering on the long finish, it should drink well for a couple of decades.