Wine Reviews

The 2023 Hermitage La Chapelle opens with aromas of gentian, elderflower, violet and dark berries, marked by a somewhat austere, reserved profile at this stage. Medium- to full-bodied, dense and structured, it’s built around a deep, firmly constituted core of fruit that conveys the telluric authority of the site, though presently constrained by a strict, somewhat unyielding structure. The finish is long and mineral but marked by a certain firmness. While the terroir clearly asserts itself, the vintage appears less naturally suited to this style. It should nonetheless evolve with time in the cellar.

With an introverted, almost austere profile, the 2022 Hermitage La Chapelle offers up aromas of dark berries, spices, cornflower and licorice mingled with delicate notes of pencil lead and oak. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and structured, it has a beautiful fleshy core of fruit…

On the nose, it’s gently cedary, with crushed stone and pencil shavings accenting dark, plummy fruit, plus mocha, earth and black olives. It’s full-bodied but not that rich or concentrated, with an open-knit feel and a shortage of energy and drive on the finish.

Glossy red fruit, fresh violet, rose petal and leafy traces introduce the intricate 2023 Hermitage La Chapelle. Crushed rocks and jasmine scents add more aromatic layers. Fragrant and expressive, the medium- to full-bodied 2023 shines with elevated flavor concentration, neatly accompanied by sleek tannins and a bright acidic backbone. This is an inviting, upfront delicious La Chapelle coming with secure aging potential.

A cornucopia of forest berries, wild herbs and flowers pour from the glass. Incredibly focused and structured on the super-concentrated, medium- to full-bodied palate. As it aerates, notes of licorice, bark and black olive tapenade unfurl.