2015 Hermitage les Bessards
By Delas Freres
2015 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres, Rhone
Harvested from one of the most esteemed parcels in the northern Rhone region, the 2015 Hermitage les Bessards bestows upon us a unique rendition of radiant grandeur from Delas Freres. Bearing a history dating back to 1835, Delas Freres has proven to be a paragon of reliability and ingenuity in wine-making.
Fruition of an Exemplary Year
The year 2015 brought forth enviable climatic conditions in the Rhone region, resulting in a vintage that is an amalgamation of endless summer days and optimally cool evenings. This balance has undoubtedly played a crucial role in accentuating the trademark concentration and intensity intrinsic to the indomitable Syrah grape of which this wine is solely comprised.
Investment Potential: Distinction Meets Dependability
The ageing ability of Rhone Syrah, particularly those from illustrious terroirs such as Hermitage, secures the 2015 Hermitage les Bessards as a worthy addition to any discerning investor's collection. When stored properly, it holds excellent potential for long-term growth and offers unparalleled enjoyment upon maturity, establishing its credibility to be a robust wine investment choice.
A Sip into Extravagance
Its deep crimson hue brims with an alluring aura of crushed blackberries weaving through savory notes of smoked meat and spice. An intricate composition of black fruit compote dances inconspicuously to the tune of liquorice and graphite undertones. Simultaneously robust and elegant, it's as though the very essence of its prestigious terroir has been captured in liquid form.
The 2015 Hermitage les Bessards draft an impressive finale with layers of primal fruit veiled by a smoky mineral sheen, nestling comfortably in a velvet-lined tannin framework, resulting in a lingering finish that is nothing short of magical.
In the realm of Rhone Syrah, the opulent 2015 Hermitage les Bessards not only reaffirms Delas Freres' status as a stalwart of quality but extols the virtues of this captivating vintage. A wine of this stature undoubtedly represents an investment-grade opportunity that exceeds the measure of an ordinary pour.
Market price (CAD)
$3,130.00
12x75cl
Highest score
99
POP score
98.95
Scores and tasting notes
With approximately 500 cases produced, the 2015 Hermitage les Bessards is probably among the most available of the vintage's top wines. Jump on it if your means allow, as I suspect this wine will be a candidate for perfection once it sheds some tannin. It's perfumed on the nose, concentrated on the palate and amazingly long yet also elegant from start to finish. And amid the power, oak and massive cassis and blackberry fruit, it also manages to include hints of crushed stone evocative of its granitic terroir. It's breathtaking stuff, virtually guaranteed to bring a smile to any wine lover's face.
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 29 December 2017