Delas Freres   Hermitage les Bessards

2012 Hermitage les Bessards

By Delas Freres

The 2012 Hermitage les Bessards from Delas Freres, Rhone

Emanating from the renowned terraced vineyards of the Rhone's Hermitage hill, the 2012 Hermitage Les Bessards from Delas Freres is a wine that demands attention. The Delas Freres winemakers have harnessed the power and depth of this exceptional vintage, which has been hailed for its balance of ripeness and savoury complexity.

 

A display of unique terroir and astute vinification

In the world of fine wine investment, terroir plays a vital role in a wine's distinctiveness. The 2012 Hermitage les Bessards eloquently articulates the granitic slopes and optimal sun exposure common to this area of the Northern Rhone. Skillfully bonded with handpicked Syrah grapes, grown on the steep inclines, it showcases a rigorous selection process with a strict yield control.

Delicately assembled in the hands of master winemakers at Delas Freres, this vintage exhibits an extraordinary configuration of aromatic red fruits, anchored by an undeniable peppery spine. Aged for up to 18 months in oak barrels, it raises a toast to robust structure and remarkable ageing potential.

 

Distinct vintage, enduring character

The climatic conditions of 2012 gifted the winemakers at Delas Freres with an opportunity to craft a masterpiece. A challenging growing season fostered smaller grape clusters, imbuing increased concentration and enhanced flavour profile. The century-aged vines tolerated the challenge admirably, bestowing life and energy into this memorable vintage.

The extensively lauded 2012 Hermitage les Bessards encapsulates an elevated expression of the varietal's finesse. An investable proposition, it regularly fetches commendable returns to those who appreciate the significance of vintage nuances and region-specific excellence.

To summarise, through the observation of impeccable winemaking skills in challenging climatic conditions, the 2012 Hermitage Les Bessards confidently finds its place among the leading wines of Hermitage hill. We can firmly suggest it is a judicious choice for both wine enthusiasts eyeing long-term cellar additions and investors seeking potential yield in the wine market.

Current market price

£1,200.00

12x75cl

Highest score

97

POP score

70.59

Scores and tasting notes

97

The star of the show is the 2012 Hermitage Les Bessards. Coming from the pure granite soils of the Les Bessards lieu-dit, on the western edge of the appellation, it’s made from 100% Syrah and spent 16 months in 70% new French oak. It’s an incredible wine that offers classic powdered rock-like minerality, loads of crème de cassis and black raspberry fruit, smoked meats, spice and dried-flower nuances. Complex, pure and perfumed, it’s full-bodied and seamless on the palate, with fabulous density, ultra-fine tannin structure and impeccable overall balance. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar and drink it over the following two decades.

Jeb Dunnuck - The Wine Advocate, 29 December 2014

Vintage performance