Ermitage l'Ermite, Maison M. Chapoutier 2022

In the same ballpark as the Pavillon, pure crème de cassis, violets, graphite, crushed stone, and floral notes all emerge from the 2022 Ermitage L'Ermite, which was 85% destemmed and raised in 20% new oak. Full-bodied, deep, and powerful on the palate, it shows incredible concentration and structure, with loads of ripe tannins and a mineral-laced finish. It needs time but will have decades of longevity. Drink 2033-2060.

Another wine that's only for those with patience, the 2022 Ermitage L'Ermite was 85% destemmed and vinified all in concrete tanks, with the élevage spanning 18 months in just 20% new French oak. Incredible aromatics of pure crème de cassis, burning embers, graphite, scorched earth, and liquid rock-like minerality all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, layered, chiseled mouthfeel, flawless tannins, and sensational levels of concentration and extract. As with the other 2022s here, it stays tight, compact, and inward on the palate and is going to need bottle age. It's a heavenly wine in the making, though.