M. Chapoutier, Hermitage, l'Ermite Rouge 2016

The full-bodied 2016 Ermitage l'Ermite is the biggest, most tannic of Chapoutier's current releases. Don't be fooled by the upfront aromas of confiture de cassis, this rich, chewy wine needs 6-7 years of cellaring to near approachability. But what a maturity that should prove to be, with hints of cedar framing ripe, mouthwatering fruit and savory overtones of black olive and licorice, all backed by the sensation of powdered granite on an almost endless finish.