2000 Hermitage Blanc
By Jean-Louis Chave
2000 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave, Rhone
Witnessing the unveiling of a historical vintage such as the 2000 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave is akin to exposing layers of an infinite aroma universe. This sun-drenched Northern Rhone white wine triumph communicates with a flourish only possible in a millennial year. The turn of the century was kind to the Rhone Valley, bestowing us with an intriguing, investable opportunity.
Ethereal Elixir Invested in Knowledge and Heritage
The venerable hand of Jean-Louis Chave produced one of the most remarkable Hermitage Blanc vintages in his wine-making tenure. This release mirrors his intrinsic understanding of the vineyard’s patchwork soils, combined with the advantage of an illustrious lineage that's associated with Cleef terroir's intimate secrets.
Sipping the 2000 Hermitage Blanc is like experiencing an ocular fireworks display. The vibrant core of rich marzipan and stone fruit flavors forms an opulent amalgamation, layered with intricate accents of baked apple sweetness and white flower intensity.
Rhone’s Beacon: A timeless vintage
The year 2000 bore witness to favorable climatic conditions that graced the Rhone Valley, offering a gentle winter followed by a relatively benign spring and optimal summer heat. The sun-kissed vineyards consequently matured grapes exhibiting impressive balance, making this year one to remember.
This Hermitage reaches beyond its inherent complexity, marked by a silky depth that hints at luscious pear, quince, and honeysuckle notes. Pleasing minerality showcases on the finish, adding an unprecedentedly sophisticated and charming ensemble.
The 2000 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave holds its inherent elegance without the cloying opulence of some grand Southern Rhone companions. It’s an investment in a veritable jewel from Rhone, representing a noble insight into the region's timeless beauty and Jean-Louis Chave's unrivaled talent. This is a bottle that experienced collectors will relish, savor and continue to track as it quietly matures to its peak performance.
Market price (HKD)
HK$29,090.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
202.67
Scores and tasting notes
A 1,000-case blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne, the profound 2000 Hermitage blanc boasts a terrific perfume of honeysuckle, white flowers, peaches, citrus, and minerals. Displaying an unctuous texture along with tremendous glycerin, richness, and depth, it will undoubtedly close down after a few years in the bottle, but for now, it is a spectacularly rich, multidimensional white Hermitage to drink young, then forget about for 5-10 years, after which it will last for 15-20 years. This family-run estate continues to go from strength to strength, with the father and son (Gerard and Jean-Louis) team pushing all the right buttons to achieve success at all quality levels. Jean-Louis Chave is responsible for several negociant wines. Importers: Langdon Shiverick, Cleveland, OH; tel. (216) 861-6800 and Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2003