Stefan Dolhain

9.1

2018 vintage. An unusually high percentage of Petit Verdot (25%), with 60% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark red, with a tiny orange rim. The first nose is not particularly attractive, give it an hour to open up, and let the violet, spices and black fruits take over. In the mouth it features serious concentration and an intense spiciness in a framework of slightly dusty, but ripe tannins. Petit Verdot tends to dominate quickly in a blend, and in this wine it seems to play the first violin, but it's perfectly ripe and therefore it adds to the power and character of the wine. Good value at 16 euro. Abv. 14,5%. — a month ago

Stefan Dolhain

9.0

2019 vintage. This estate is owned by the Thomas family ( Château Reverdi, also in Listrac), and l'Ermitage was the property of their great-uncle Roger Thomas. A very high percentage of Petit Verdot (20% in this case, and in Reverdi even 30 to 35% of the blend), with 50% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. In my blending experience, Petit Verdot tends to quickly dominate a blend, hence the peppery violet nose, with a little underlying greenness. In the mouth, it starts out as a smooth operator with a round, soft mouthfeel, until the finish where a vegetal note kicks in, making me wonder whether the Petit Verdot was fully ripe. Still, there is a lot to like about this 13,50 euro Listrac, especially in combination with some food to cover the rough edges with the cloak of charity. Abv. 14%. — 11 days ago