Domaine Jean-Louis Chave and tradition on the Hermitage hill

Domaine Jean-Louis Chave has been renowned for generations on the Hermitage slopes. The family manages small plots on chalky, granite soils. Their approach focuses on perfectly ripe grapes, low yields, and stylish vinification. Chave's white Hermitage is among the finest in the northern Rhône. The highest quality is achieved through old vines, hand harvesting, and oak aging. The result is a wine that is both drinkable now and will develop beautifully.

the terroir of Hermitage and the white grapes

The Hermitage appellation is located on the right bank of the Rhône River. The vineyards are situated on steep slopes with a soil of limestone, granite, and scree. This ensures deep rooting, good drainage, and intense maturation. For the white wine, the estate uses Marsanne and Roussanne grapes. Marsanne provides body, ripe fruit, and nuts, while Roussanne adds aroma, finesse, and complexity. This combination results in a wine with length and depth.

characteristics of Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc 2020

The 2020 Hermitage Blanc showcases the house's signature style in a strong vintage. According to the technical sheet, the wine is blended from the best plots of old vines on the hillside. The 2020 vintage offered warm days but cool nights, allowing the grapes to ripen well and retain their freshness. The wine displays ripe fruit yet remains tight and mineral. The length is clearly high quality.

The fact sheet states that the 2020 version was partially aged in new and used oak for 18 months. This approach adds structure without emphasizing the wood. The style is elegant and long-lasting.

harvest and vinification of 2020 Blanc

Harvesting was done manually, selecting individually healthy bunches. After cold maceration, the grapes were gently pressed. Fermentation took place largely in oak barrels, with approximately 30 percent new wood used. The wine was then aged on the lees and regularly bâtonnaged to enhance structure and texture. The vinification harmoniously combines fruit, oak, and terroir.

color, aroma and taste of Hermitage Blanc 2020

The color is light golden yellow with a ripe core. The aroma opens with peach, apricot, white flowers, and a light hint of warm spices and almond. In the background, notes of honey and lime. On the palate, the wine is broad yet taut. Ripe fruit is supported by fresh acidity and mineral tension. The texture is creamy, the finish long and layered with a subtle note of spice and a mineral finish.

aging potential of Hermitage Blanc 2020

The 2020 vintage produced wines with ripeness and concentration. For the 2020 Hermitage Blanc, this means it's immediately enjoyable but will continue to develop over time. Its strength and structure allow for evolution into flavors of nuts, honey, and ripe stone fruit. For connoisseurs, this is a wine that will remain interesting for years to come.

Would you like to order Domaine Jean-Louis Chave wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pickup" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings with Hermitage Blanc 2020

Lobster with beurre blanc complements the rich structure and texture of the wine.

Grilled scallops with cauliflower puree are a success with their delicate flavours and mineral finish.

Risotto with saffron and lobster is an elegant combination with the length of the wine.

Oven-baked chicken with tarragon and lemon adds freshness to the richness of the wine.

Roasted cauliflower steak with almond turns the dish into a vegetarian option for this wine.

Ripe Comté with figs makes a lovely finish, combining nutty aromas of wine and cheese platter.