2009 M. Chapoutier "L'Ermite" Ermitage (Pre-Arrival)
SKU #1072586
98 points
Wine Advocate
Conservatively, the 2009 Ermitage l’Ermite (702 cases) needs 25-30 years of cellaring. Another monumental effort from Michel Chapoutier, it possesses copious notes of smoky asphalt, black truffles, pen ink, graphite and blackberry liqueur intermixed with hints of flowers and crushed rocks. Extremely full-bodied with abundant sweet tannins, amazing penetration on the palate and a long finish, this historic effort should age effortlessly for 50-100+ years. (RP) 98+
(12/2011)
98 points
Wine Spectator
This has a taut feel still, with an almost searing iron edge, but there's plenty of flesh in reserve, with plum compote, cherry pâte de fruit and anise notes that slowly fill in on the lengthy finish. Offers lots of grip too as this slowly unwinds with air, letting its iron edge stretch out even more. There's terrific spine and cut, with very impressive length. *Collectible* (JM)
(7/2012)
97 points
Jeb Dunnuck
Seemingly the most structured and traditional of the Ermitages, the 2009 M. Chapoutier Ermitage l'Ermite comes from 80+ year-old vines and is 100% destemmed Syrah that’s aged in a combination of new and 1-year-old barrels. It possesses an absolutely brilliant array of black raspberries, smoke, graphite, mineral, and assorted floral characteristics on the nose, and this is followed up by a full-bodied, structured, dense, and layered Syrah that has masses of ripe tannin, gorgeous precision and focus, and a blockbuster finish. As with the Le Pavillon, this needs a decade or more in the cellar, and will have an incredibly long life ahead of it.
(3/2012)
94 points
Int'l Wine Cellar
Explosive aromas of candied red fruits, potpourri and incense, with a medicinal nuance adding complexity. Stains the palate with intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors lifted by smoky mineraity. Becomes spicier and deeper with air and finishes with superb clarity and lingering florality. By all means allow this to rest for at least another five years. (JR) 94+
(3/2012)
Jancis Robinson
Unusual balsam nose. Hugely distinctive. Savoury finish. Well-managed tannins. Very assertive, ripe but not sweet fruit in the middle. Very appetising. Pure and clean. 18/20 points (JR)
(9/2015)
