Jean Louis Chave   Hermitage Blanc

2016 Hermitage Blanc

By Jean-Louis Chave

2016 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave, Rhone

The sumptuous 2016 Hermitage Blanc from the acclaimed producer Jean-Louis Chave encapsulates an intricacy synonymous with the Rhone region. Remarkable for its exceptional balance and concentration, the 2016 vintage proves itself to be a wine of unique character and compelling investment prospects.

 

A Performer of Pure Distinction

This distinguished wine erupts in a beautiful symphony of taste. The 2016 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave boasts a proprietary blend of Marsanne and Roussanne, an illustrious pairing that paints each sip with colours of ripe pear, honeyed citrus and nuanced mineral undertones. Maturity graces this vibrant incarnation with an intriguing complexity, setting this vintage apart.

The velvety mouthfeel smoothly reveals the subtle interplay between crisp acidity and poised richness making this wine an irresistible affair for the palate.

 

An Embodiment of A Compelling Vintage

The climatic conditions of 2016 in the Rhone valley were extraordinary resulting in a vintage that has garnered much attention. Marked by favourable temperature swings and well-distributed precipitation, 2016 graced us with wines like the Hermitage Blanc; striking for their ability to offer immediate enjoyment, whilst simultaneously promising profound ageing potential. Through exquisite balance, elegant freshness and rewarding depth, this wine beautifully encapsulates this remarkable year.

The long-lasting finish, layered with delicate fruit and mineral notes serves as a stately conclusion to this aromatic composition, making the 2016 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave a captivating feature for cultured collections and a substantial addition for knowledgeable investors.

 

The Harvest of Revered Mastery

Through steadfast mastery, Jean-Louis Chave continues to affirm their esteemed reputation, ever enhancing the allure of Rhone wines in the discerning world of wine investments. Brimming with exceptional texture and structure, the 2016 Hermitage Blanc undoubtedly demonstrates the imprint of meticulous viticulture, carefully honed winemaking techniques and an unconditional reverence to the land.

In summary, the 2016 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave is an eloquent narrative of the intertwining dance between grape variety and terroir whilst simultaneously acting as a testament of a year that blessed the Rhone winemakers with optimal conditions. An essential investment for those wishing to delight in the allure brought by fine wine; a tapestry woven with time, climate, expertise and passion.

Current market price

$4,420.00

12x75cl

Highest score

98

POP score

147.22

Scores and tasting notes

98

Bottled in August, Chave's 2016 Hermitage Blanc is a tremendous wine. It's a bit closed on the nose (bottle shock?), but it wows on the palate, rocking it with seismic waves of super ripe pineapple and melon fruit and more than a small dose of what I can only describe as magma-like essence of stone. It's full-bodied and mouthfilling in its richness, yet it never seems heavy or overdone. Remember that yields were constrained by hail, so don't delay in procuring whatever your budget will allow.

Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 31 October 2018

Vintage performance