2017 Hermitage Blanc
By Jean-Louis Chave
Majesty in a Bottle: The 2017 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave, Rhone
As an investor seeking quality and consistency with strong future prospects, look no further than the 2017 Hermitage Blanc from the famed Jean-Louis Chave. Sitting in this esteemed winemaker's stable, the 2017 vintage stands as a testament to the interplay of the careful hand of human cultivation, and the caprice of nature.
Unraveling Character - A taste that echoes the narrative of 2017
The narrative of Rhone in 2017 was penned by nature itself; it was a year marked by warmth, sun-drenched days, capped off with a well-timed spell of rain late in the season. What has materialised from this tale is a wine that mirrors these attributes. From this exceptional vintage emerges a ripe, full-bodied majesty that is all too rare.
Carefully coaxing the grapes to their full potential was no small feat in such a climatically generous year, yet Chave has built his reputation upon just such a challenge. His liquid offering doesn't just sing with its mouthful of nectarines, white flowers, and Meyer lemon nuances - it holds fascinating tales deep within its core.
A Compelling Investment Choice
Investors that gravitate towards 'Burgundy styled' wines would find this 2017 Hermitage Blanc an intriguing proposition. Its solid backbone of acidity hints at its aging potential; indeed, one might argue that its youth barely masks what will likely evolve into one of the best examples of structured balance between opulence and elegance.
This favourable forecast for longevity makes it not only an excellent addition to any wine cellar but a compelling choice from an investment viewpoint. Its ability to hold and possibly increase in value over time marks it as an asset worth dwelling upon.
In conclusion, the 2017 Hermitage Blanc from Jean-Louis Chave is a fascinating exemplification of its climatic narrative within an exceptional Rhone vintage. A richly nuanced palette balanced by a potent promise of aging potential, it offers far more than just immediate gratification, painting a compelling picture for both the wine lover and investor.
Market price (GBP)
£2,730.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
151.67
Scores and tasting notes
In the end, I'm unable to definitely say that the 2017 Hermitage Blanc is better than the stupendous 2016. Of course, I sampled it just three days after it was bottled, so I've appended the + to my rating, as there's a possibility the wine may have been affected by that process. It's gently toasty but dominated at this stage by forward melon and pineapple fruit. Full-bodied and incredibly rich yet balanced, it unfolds in waves of flavor and texture, lingering for what seems like minutes on the finish. Hit it soon to enjoy its youthful opulence, or put it aside for 10-12 years.
Joe Czerwinski - The Wine Advocate, 19 December 2019