2007 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage

"I tasted this wine in three components from stainless steel tanks, where it was awaiting bottling this winter. #1: Red berries and flowers on the nose, with strong mineral and floral notes and Asian spices. #2: More masculine and brooding, offering deep cherry compote and blackcurrant scents and suggestions of licorice and black cardamom. Smoky dark fruit flavors are framed by chewy tannins and pick up sweeter red berry qualities with air. The finish is sweet and penetrating, with a strong echo of black raspberry. #3: Fresh raspberry and cherry on the nose, with notes of smoked meat, minerals and violet. Supple, mineral-laced red fruit flavors are joined by allspice and violet pastille on the back. Very fresh sample with strong finishing lift and spiciness." 96/100 - Int'l Wine Cellar