M. Chapoutier Ermitage L’Ermite Rouge 2023

L'Ermite is the parcel that crowns the Hermitage hill, taking its name from the chapel at the summit, and Michel Chapoutier farms its Syrah biodynamically and organically. The soils here are thin and stony over solid granite, a poor, free-draining base that forces the vines deep and yields a wine of finesse and minerality rather than sheer power. The altitude and exposure of the summit slow ripening and hold acidity, giving aromatic lift to the Syrah. After fermentation the wine ages in oak, where gentle oxygen exchange knits the tannins together and adds savoury complexity while the granite signature comes through clearly. This is a precise, structured Hermitage made to reward patience. It is deep ruby moving to garnet, with aromas of red berries and plum over black pepper, woodsmoke and a stony, almost graphite-like minerality. The palate is firmly tannic and tightly wound, with liquorice and dark fruit carried on a cool, mineral line to a long finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanted well ahead, in a large glass. It is built for roast beef, venison and rare lamb.