2020 Domaine Belle Hermitage

Professional Reviews

Staff Reviews

KM

Keith Mabry

Keith Mabry

K&L Buyer

Always rising to the top though, the Belle Hermitage is another tremendous success. From the lieux-dits of Murets and Diognières, it is a wine that shows its aspect. Flavors of crème de cassis, chambord, cocoa and fresh leather, it is a powerful rendition showing the weight of the vintage. The tannins are quite fine, but this is still a wine that begs for a few years in the cellar. But what a wine!

Notes

The roots of the Belle family run deep in Hermitage and extend back to the 18th century when the family began acquiring vines in the region. When descendant Louis Belle assumed control of the property, he preferred tending vines over making wine. In 1933, he became one of the founding members of the Cave de Tain, the local cooperative. It was not until 2003 when grandson Philippe began making wines for the domaine. The property has 25 hectares of vines planted across Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage and St-Joseph, along with apricot orchards and a vine nursery tended by Philippe's brother, Jean-Claude. The vineyards were certified organic in 2014. The Hermitage comes from two primary parcels in the lieux-dits of Murets and Diognières. Both are known for their mix of clay-limestone and alluvial soils. Fermented in stainless steel, there is no destemming and all indigenous yeasts are used. After fermentation the wine ages for 24 months in about 50/50 new and 1-year-old barriques. A serious wine from a producer that is working at the top of their game.