Along with the single vineyard offerings from Michel Chapoutier, Chave’s 2000 Hermitage is a candidate for this appellation’s “wine of the vintage.” A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sumptuous aromas of licorice, blackberries, currants, spice box, and earth. Deep, full-bodied, and rich, with moderately high tannin, it is atypical for the vintage given its structure and density (two characteristics most 2000 northern Rhones lack). It is a brilliant achievement in a challenging year. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.This family-run estate continues to go from strength to strength, with the father and son (Gerard and Jean-Louis) team pushing all the right buttons to achieve success at all quality levels. Jean-Louis Chave is responsible for several negociant wines.Robert Parker | 96 RPA sleeper vintage, this has ample flesh, with a smoldering tobacco leaf note weaving through the core of plum, blackberry and black currant fruit. Still shows broad cocoa and tar on the finish, along with nicely defined iron and incense. Has weight and cut. Thoroughly approachable now, but isn't going anywhere soon.—Non-blind Chave vertical (June 2012). Drink now through 2025.Wine Spectator | 95 WSSaturated ruby. Superripe aromas of blackberry, blueberry, clove, minerals and black licorice. Very ripe but precise and penetrating. At once lush and powerful; seamless but with terrific thrust. Black fruit, flint, spice and dark chocolate flavors offer considerable density and verve. Finishes with substantial noble tannins that arrive very late. Has all the elements for longevity. Give this 10 to 12 years before pulling the cork. This comes across as a bit denser than the young 2001 but not finer. The Chaves clearly did a superb job of harvesting in 2000.Vinous Media | 94+ VM
