With this 2012 vintage the Chave estate can add yet another spellbinding Hermitage to to the family’s centuries-long pantheon. This is a uniquely and obviously special wine. In the glass it has a concentrated purple core moving to a magenta rim. The aromas are intense, concentrated and possess a vivid, almost 3 dimensional quality. The nose explodes with complex notes of concentrated blackberry puree, boysenberry preserves and fresh blueberries wed with exotic aromas of freshly cut violets, asian spices, fennel, dried olives, black pepper, black rocks and cured meat. On the palate the wine is full bodied with incredible weight with layers and layers of complex flavor. Despite all the magic and potential that is already quite evident, this wine should be hidden in the darkest corner of your cellar for a minimum of 6-8 years before before you even consider drinking it—and in all honesty, it will peak in 15-20 years. A 1995 I enjoyed last year was just reaching its peak, and two decades is a typical ballpark “sweet spot” for this estate’s reds. Truly, the entire purpose of the estate is to create a timeless wine which can be handed down across generations as it continuously develops, evolves, and improves. The bottles of Chave Hermitage in my cellar are some of my most prized possessions. I may pull a mature bottle out for my anniversary or to celebrate a close friend’s marriage—and a young bottle like this is a truly generous birthday or holiday gift. This is one of the greats.