1996 Domaine Jean Louis Chave, Hermitage, Blanc 4x75cl

Antonio Galloni 94

Among the whites, I especially admired the 1995 Chave Hermitage Blanc for its complex bouquet of truffles, honey, flowers and spices, all of which flowed through to the unctuous finish. This rich, explosive wine was utterly captivating. I also loved the 1996, which impressed for its cool, brilliant personality and impeccable finish. [Antonio Galloni, 06/01/2010]

Stephen Tanzer 91+

Very complex nose combines apple, white flowers, honey, spices and a light smoky topnote; higher-toned than Chave’s ’97 Hermitage Blanc. Supple but tight today, with lively acidity giving the middle palate a very firm edge. Very young today. Extremely subtle on the finish, but not as powerful or persistent as the ’97. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/01/1999]

Wine Advocate 92

The Hermitage Blanc ’96 from JL Chave has a captivating bouquet with scents of cooking apple, almond flakes, frangipane and linden that leap like a playful kitten from the glass. The palate displays a faint tang of fresh lemongrass on the entry with a pleasing viscous texture. It gains volume in the mouth with honeydew melon, green lemon, pear and lanolin towards the finish. Drink now-2020. Tasted June 2010. [Neal Martin, 01/06/2010]

Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020