Professional reviews
Robert Parker (96)
Just bottled, the 2011 Hermitage Blanc also shows the richer side of Hermitage with its full-bodied, voluptuously textured and up-front profile. Honeysuckle, licorice, toast, citrus oil and liquid mineral-like qualities all emerge from this beauty, and it stays beautifully fresh and focused on the palate. A blend of mostly Marsanne, yet with roughly 20% Roussanne, from the l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, this substantial white should be consumed over the coming 2-4 years, or forgotten for a decade or more. It will have over two decades of longevity.
Winespectator (97)
Still a bit reserved aromatically, with hints of orange blossom and crème anglaise peeking out, this features a captivating display of racy quinine, honeysuckle and white peach flavors inlaid into a rich core of brioche, Cavaillon melon, white truffle, smoked almond and heather honey. Incredibly long. Hard to resist now, but be patient.
James Suckling (96)
Still a bit reserved aromatically, with hints of orange blossom and crème anglaise peeking out, this features a captivating display of racy quinine, honeysuckle and white peach flavors inlaid into a rich core of brioche, Cavaillon melon, white truffle, smoked almond and heather honey. Incredibly long. Hard to resist now, but be patient. Best from 2019 through 2030.
Jancis Robinson (18)
Lovely honeyed nose. Smells so rich. On the palate, rich and spicy and really nutty. Honey flavours are balanced by a freshness that seems to come from the wine’s savoury pear-grain texture and a very attractive bitter note. Hedonistic and in perfect harmony. (JH)
BOW (9)
Falstaff (98)
Initially very restrained on the nose, with floral, nutty and buttery tones. With air ripe peach emerges with, blackberry, sweet cherry. Creamy attack - viscous, but not smooth, substantial, mineral notes, soft acidity that is almost not perceptible in isolation, so integrated with the body and minerality. A great white wine, powerful in its stature and yet delicately strung. Great length, persistent savoury notes (also star anise and caraway).
