CRITIC REVIEWS
Josh Raynolds
Glass-staining purple. Assertively perfumed cassis, cherry liqueur, fruitcake and floral aromas take on espresso, olive and smoky bacon accents with aeration. Juicy, chewy and energetic on the palate, offering densely packed, alluringly sweet black and blue fruit preserve, floral pastille, licorice and mocha flavors that become deeper and spicier as the wine slowly stretches out. The floral and mineral notes repeat emphatically on a wonderfully long, juicy and mineral-dominated finish that's framed by building, well-wrought tannins.
Joe Czerwinski
After the past several vintages, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle will need to add significant richness and concentration if it is to compete at that level. That said, it is still an excellent wine, with classic aromas of crushed stone, cassis, espresso and black olives. It's full-bodied, fine and silky, giving an impression of great elegance on the lingering finish.
JancisRobinson.com
100% Marsanne. Aged in concrete. Single parcel in Maison Blanche. Last produced in 2014. Rich and precise on the nose with almond and citrus notes. Same precision on the palate, which is round and full but vibrant, the acidity present and giving length and drive. More gras and weight than Le Chevalier but still that introverted, wait-and-see style. (JL)