Ermitage L'Ermite Blanc Chapoutier 2008 (750ML)

96 Points, Robert Parker Jr., Wine Advocate: "Almond paste, crushed rock, orange, mango and pineapple aromas jump from the glass of this honeyed white along with gorgeous layers of that liqueur of rocks-like note that is typical of this terroir. Unquestionably a candidate for the wine of the vintage in the entire Rhone Valley, it, like the other single vineyard white Hermitages, should drink well for 7-10 years as they are on a much faster evolutionary track." 02/11

Ripe and focused, with a fresh streak of quinine stitching the honeysuckle, macadamia nut, dried peach, papaya and nectarine flavors together. The long finish still has some youthful tautness to it, but this opens steadily with air and displays remarkable length, mouthfeel and buried minerality. Not a blip of the vintage's overly tangy side either...95 WS 11/10