Delas Freres   Hermitage les Bessards

2005 Hermitage les Bessards

By Delas Freres

2005 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres, Rhone

As one of the remarkable expressions of Rhone's premium terroir, the 2005 Hermitage les Bessards from influential producer Delas Freres is a captivating exploration of the subtleties born from the hillside schistous vineyards of the Hermitage area.

 

Investing in the nectar of the gods

The monumental 2005 Hermitage les Bessards aggregates value and elegance in such a way that it merits rightful consideration as a leading contender for any serious wine portfolio. Deriving its exquisite character from 100% Syrah grapes, encapsulating how this old-world varietal can gracefully age, this vintage teems with unparalleled complexity.

The 2005 vintage was particularly remarkable in Rhone, where growing conditions were ideal, creating wines that possess poise, concentration, and an impressively long life on cellaring. At 16 years old, this sensational wine is tasting beautifully now and promises continued evolution over the coming years.

 

2005 - A star-studded vintage for Hermitage

The laudable excellence of the 2005 Hermitage Les Bessards from Delas Freres is a testament to the fabulous growing season and vigilant winemaking practices that prevailed that year. Swirls reveal a captivating fusion of dark berries spectrum - blackcurrants and blueberry compote, nuanced by shades of leather, licorice, and a minerally undertone. This full-bodied wine exhibits harmonious balance between its tannic structure and vibrant acidity - an echo of its exceptional vintage.

This wine is more than just an expression of its sourcing appellation; it shows the competency of Delas Freres in capturing the essence of the northern Rhone terroir. If you are intrigued by the fascinating interplay between quality, terroir, and vintage variation, this consummate, collectible vintage - the 2005 Hermitage les Bessards - is undeniably one to add to your fine wine investment.

Current market price

$2,630.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

105.33

Scores and tasting notes

95

A wine that needs to be left alone for another 4-5 years is the 2005 Hermitage Les Bessards. As with the Cote Rotie La Landonne, I tasted this earlier in the year and it showed similar this go around as well. Massive, tannic, concentrated and backwards, with tons of graphite, crushed rock and smoked meats, it has full-bodied richness, massive tannin and a big finish. I worry a smidge about the overall tannin level/balance here, but I’m still convinced that this wine’s best days lie ahead.

Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 3 March 2016

Vintage performance