2015 Chave Hermitage: The Benchmark of Northern Rhone
✨ Legendary producer. Iconic vineyard. Benchmark vintage 🏆
When people talk about the great wines of the world, Jean-Louis Chave is always part of the conversation. Few producers command such universal respect, not just in the Rhône Valley, but anywhere fine wine is poured. For over five centuries, the Chave family has farmed the steep, sun-drenched slopes of Hermitage Hill, crafting wines that define what Syrah can be at its absolute peak.
The Chave story began in 1481, when the family first settled in the village of Mauves, just across the river from Hermitage. Generation after generation, they have passed down not only vineyard parcels but an uncompromising philosophy: respect the land, blend for balance, and let each parcel express its soul. Today, Jean-Louis Chave continues that lineage: combining tradition, intuition, and microscopic attention to detail.
A Mosaic of Legendary Vineyards
The Hermitage Rouge isn’t a single-vineyard wine, it’s a master blend of the hill’s greatest crus. Each site contributes its own dimension:
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Les Bessards brings power, graphite minerality, and structure.
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Le Méal adds richness and velvety texture from its limestone soils.
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L’Hermite lends floral perfume and lift from its higher elevation.
The result is a wine that captures the total essence of Hermitage - a balance of dark fruit, spice, and stone that evolves for decades.
The 2015 Vintage — Rhône Perfection
The 2015 vintage in the Northern Rhône was nothing short of legendary. A near-perfect growing season with warm, sunny days and cool nights created Syrah of extraordinary concentration, ripeness, and balance. Many critics called it the finest vintage since 1990 and a year that redefined what Hermitage could be.
In the glass, the 2015 Chave Hermitage Rouge is monumental yet poised. Waves of blackberry, cassis, violets, smoked meat, graphite, and crushed rock unfold with each swirl. The texture is seamless — dense, layered, and luxurious — supported by velvety tannins and a finish that seems to echo endlessly. It’s one of those wines where every sip reminds you why Chave is in a league of his own.
The Wine Advocate sealed the deal with a perfect 100-point score, declaring:
“As good as Hermitage can get… reminds me of a mix of the 2010 and 1990.”
Drink or Collect? Both.
While this 2015 will easily age 30–40 years, it’s also stunningly drinkable now. Rich, harmonious, and alive with energy. Whether you’re opening it for a milestone dinner or laying it down for the next generation, this bottle represents the summit of Rhône winemaking.
Why It Belongs in Every Serious Cellar
There’s Hermitage… and then there’s Chave Hermitage. This is not just a wine! This is a piece of French wine history, made by one of the most respected families in viticulture. Collectors covet it. Sommeliers revere it. And once you’ve tasted it, you understand why.