2008 M. Chapoutier Ermitage ‘L’Ermite Blanc’, Rhone, France (750ml)

TASTING NOTES:

Vivid gold. The richest and most aromatic of this set, offering expansive aromas of singed orange, pear, nectarine, smoked meat and minerals. Weighty citrus and orchard fruit flavors take on a buttery character in the middle palate and pick up notes of smoke and dusty minerals. As rich and palate-coating as this wine is, its minerality helps it maintain focus and energy, especially on the very long, sappy, smoky finish.

– Josh Raynolds ofVinous, 93-96 pts