M Chapoutier, Ermitage L'Ermite 2019

"Marked by sensationally deep notes of crushed stone, cassis and blueberry, the 2019 Ermitage l'Ermite is a tremendous effort and a worthy rival to the wines produced in the past four vintages. Full-bodied, it's rich and restrained, expansive yet structured—just a complete wine from mouthwatering aromas to velvety mouthfeel and long, stony finish. While delicious now, I'd expect it to close up shortly, yet still be going strong two decades from now. Wow!" – Wine Advocate

"Displays a complex array of dark fruit preserve, floral, exotic spice and savory herb qualities on the highly perfumed nose; a smoky mineral accent builds as the wine opens up. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift to its profoundly concentrated cherry liqueur, blueberry, vanilla, espresso and fruitcake flavors, which slowly expand through the mid-palate. Deftly blends depth and energy and shows superb detail and mineral thrust on a strikingly long, youthfully tannic finish." – Vinous