Hermitage 2004 Chave

Avis professionnels

Robert Parker (94)

The 2004 red Hermitage, which was given a much longer time in barrel and small foudre than normal because the Chaves determined the tannins and the acids needed a longer time to integrate, is a beauty. The wine exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, a big, sweet nose of creme de cassis, black cherry, licorice, pepper, and a hint of olive paste. It is a full-bodied wine that tastes atypical for this vintage with its beautifully integrated acidity and sweet tannin. The wine is structured, more masculine and backward than the over-the-top, full-throttle 2003. Readers could probably think of it as an improved, modern-day version of the 1988 or 1998.

Winespectator (96)

The first vintage that seems approachable now, this pumps out a very friendly core of steeped red currant, blackberry cherry and plum fruit, with exuberant acidity, mouthwatering cocoa and pain d'épices notes followed by a long, incense- and black tea-infused finish. Has the stuffing and balance to age further, but thoroughly delicious now.

BOW (8.50)