2007 M. Chapoutier "L'Ermite" Ermitage Rouge (Pre-Arrival)

94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Ruby-red. Seductively perfumed bouquet of dark berry preserve and cherry aromas, with complicating notes of pungent herbs and anise. Pliant, deeply concentrated dark fruit and floral pastille flavors, with a smoky, pungently herbal quality adding another element. This smooth, alluring wine finishes with noteworthy sweetness and persistent fruit and violet notes." (Jan/Feb 2010) 94 points Wine Spectator: "This has depth, length and character, with mouthfilling blackberry, raspberry and cherry fruit flavors supported by bright acidity. The long, minerally spine lets additional cherry pit, blood orange and espresso notes chime in. Still a touch raw in a youthful way, so let this settle in. Best from 2011 through 2017." (WS Insider 1/27/10) 92-94+ points Robert Parker: "A more near-term candidate for consumption is the 2007 Ermitage l'Ermite. It is a more austere, slightly less concentrated effort possessing notes of powdered rock as well as red and black fruits, full-bodied power, and a long finish. It is not among the pantheon of the most compelling Ermitage l'Ermites made by Michel Chapoutier, but it is certainly an outstanding one. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035." (04/09)