2018 Hermitage les Bessards
By Delas Freres
2018 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres, Rhone, Rest of the World
Stepping boldly into the spotlight, the 2018 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres triumphantly captures the spirit of a vintage that was notably generous in the Rhone region. This year was one crafted by an admirably balanced climate, resulting in a wine of remarkable resonance, deep intensity and sophisticated elegance.
A Gemstone Embedded in Rhone's Rich Soil
The 2018 Hermitage les Bessards captures the distilled essence of the Rhone domain with harmonious symmetry. A quintessential example of a Hermitage wine’s powerful core enveloped in silk, it has a knowing command of delightful freshness paired with enigmatic depth.
It bristles with generous dark berry fruit echoing the charms of its Syrah ancestry. Yet, importantly, it moves beyond such familiar dimensions to add distinctive attributes that set the 2018 vintage apart. A distinctive black peppercorn spice ripples through layers of smooth tannin, hinting at seriousness beneath sensuous swathes of supple red.
Vintage Matters: Savouring the Splendid Singularity
As every seasoned investor knows, no two vintages are truly alike. In terms of linguistic ranks at least, "good" is too modest a word to describe the commendable gifts of 2018 climate. The sun-swept summer days usual to the Rhone region were perfectly balanced by cooler nights' breaths, infusing a graceful vibrancy into lusciously ripe grapes.
In capturing them at their peak, Delas Freres masterfully crafted the Hermitage les Bessards - a wine representing one of the best investment opportunities of the 2018 crop. Its signature concentrated personality and jaw-dropping precision make it an asset not only in the cellar but also at the table.
As dedicated admirers of Delas Freres can attest, their wines are known for their ability to mature harmoniously. And the 2018 Hermitage les Bessards shines with just such promise. For those looking to strengthen their wine investment portfolio, this is a beacon of potential, radiant in its potent blend of power and polish.
A Vintage Cloaked in Elegance
The 2018 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres is a triumph, a vintage that has encapsulated the interesting dual nature of a generous year and a meticulous winemaker. It represents an opportunity for serious investors and casual wine enthusiasts alike - to savour its current elegance or to let it evolve beyond the constraints of cellar doors.
Market price (GBP)
£1,210.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
67.22
Scores and tasting notes
Boasting classic Les Bessards notes of sun-warmed cassis and crushed stone, the 2018 Hermitage Les Bessards has turned out to be a magnificent wine—a close rival to the potentially perfect 2015. Full-bodied and velvety, concentrated and tannic, overflowing with notes of grilled plums, grilled meat and black olives, it's all topped off by a forever finish that remains fresh and cleansing, courtesy of lingering salted-licorice flavors and the texture of finely ground stone dust. Try a bottle after 2025, if you can wait that long.
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 13 May 2021