2002 Domaine Jean Louis Chave, Hermitage, Blanc 1x75cl

Stephen Tanzer 90+

Subdued but pure aromas of ginger, white flowers and menthol. Very tightly wound and citric; almost hard-edged for a young Chave white wine. All edges now and difficult to taste, especially following the 2003. Quite strict and uncompromisingly dry (actually under one gram of residual sugar), but very long and subtle. Chave says this is much richer than it’s showing today. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/01/2005]

Wine Advocate 90

The 2002 Hermitage blanc exhibits abundant amounts of acacia flowers, honeyed citrus, and a hint of orange marmalade in a ripe, elegant, medium-bodied style. Because of its low acidity, it is best consumed during its first 5-7 years of life. What Chave accomplished in the extremely challenging 2002 vintage is unquestionably noteworthy. Not because of tiny yields and small grapes, but due to Chave’s decision to eliminate every grape except the very best, 2002 is a small crop. Importers: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524 and Langdon Shiverick, Cleveland, OH; tel. (216) 861-6800. Note: Importers are in the process of changing. [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 27/12/2004]

Anticipated maturity: 2004-2011