Chapoutier   Ermitage Cuvee de lOree

2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree

By Chapoutier

2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree from Chapoutier, Rhone

For a wine that represents prestige and rarity in Rhone, the 2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree from Chapoutier sits comfortably on the podium of vinous excellence. Tasting every vintage release of this 100% Marsanne beauty over the past four decades has been a privilege for any seasoned oenophile.

 

An enigmatic character amongst its Rhone peers

What sets the 2012 vintage apart is not merely its suave elegance and power but an enigmatic character stamped indelibly into the DNA of this wine, brought about by the climatic ebbs and flows of this particular year.

The epitome of Chapoutier’s winemaking prowess, it is consistently lauded as a balanced rendition of a coveted white from one of Rhone's most celebrated producers.

 

Echoing the melodies of the 2012 season

The 2012 season saw Rhone graced with a long summer, aptly resulting in ripe yet well-structured grapes and lending credence to this vintage's reputation. The extraordinary weather trend etches its influence both on the nose and palate.

In its youth, it was ablaze with tropical fruit exuberance—ripe pineapple, apricot, and floral honeysuckle. Now matured, it poufs out complex notes of toasted almonds, bee wax and a minerality cleanly etched within layers of creamy richness.

 

An investment prospect par excellence

A testament to smart wine investment, the 2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree is perfect for those looking to enhance their cellars with future potential while providing immediate pleasure to discerning palates. The 2012 vintage encapsulates the essence of Marsanne, imbued with Chapoutier's unwavering commitment to integrity and excellence.

It's an investment in a liquid narrative that not only resonates with Rhone’s distinctive terroir, but also tells a profound story of a specific moment in time. And that time, my dear enthusiasts, is elegantly captured within the framework of the 2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree from Chapoutier.

Current market price

£2,310.00

12x75cl

Highest score

99

POP score

121.58

Scores and tasting notes

99

The 2012 Ermitage Cuvee de l'Oree is still firing on all cylinders, sporting heavenly notes of powdered rock, white flowers, honeyed orange blossom, white currants and a saltiness that keeps you coming back to the glass. Full-bodied, voluptuous and decadent, drink it anytime over the coming 2-3 decades.

Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 29 December 2014

Vintage performance