2017 J.L. Chave Selection Hermitage Farconnet

Domaine Jean-Louis Chave represents one of the longest examples of vinous lineage in the world, with the family making wines in the area since 1481. Now under the guidance of Gerard Chave and his son Jean-Louis, the pair draws on five centuries of expertise to craft each of their wines. While known for the enviable collection of prime plots on the hill of Hermitage, their other main skill is in precise blending each year to best express the region and vintage. The backbone of their red Hermitage is sourced from the steep, granite slope of the Les Bessards cru, and is essential for making the finest red each year. Likewise, the base for Chave’s heroic Hermitage Blanc is the plot of century-old Marsanne vines in their Péléat monopole, which provides rich and intense fruit without heaviness.

J.L. Chave Selection is the exclusive negociant label of Jean-Louis Chave, and represents a more accessible way to experience the wines of the Chave family. Mon Coeur Cotes-du-Rhone is a blend of excellent plots in Vinsobres, Visan, Buisson, and Estargues, while Silene Crozes-Hermitage is 50% estate Syrah and 50% purchased, and the white Crozes-Hermitage Sybele a blend of 60% Marsanne and 40% Roussane. As with all things Chave, quality is paramount even at the entry level.

Other Reviews....
A little hard on the nose, it's very young still. Medium- to full-bodied, this is certainly Hermitage, it has that grandeur and stature. Intense and structured, this is good, but will improve. You can open this now, but try to wait until 2025. Drinking Window 2021 - 2033.
94 points
Matt Walls - Decanter