The concept of the vintage L’Ermitage is the same one that is used in Champagne: only the best of the vintage is selected. These are exceptional wines that create a “noble” blend that allows for longer aging, which produces a fine wine with elegance and finesse. Vintage 2019 features aromas of quince paste and light pastry crust. The entry is bright and textured mid-palate. A mouthwatering finish is highlighted by pear skin and an even, creamy texture.

2019 L’Ermitage represents a milestone for the tête de cuvée as the first vintage of these wines to go through malolactic fermentation. The pH range is close to that of 2006, which was revered for its smoothness, making it a less classic, taut L’Ermitage and calling for a lower dosage, as well as an early release and drinking window. About 4.9% of the wine was fermented in oak cask, with gentle batonnage for eight weeks. The wine used for the dosage is a 2019 aged in oak cask for four years. Following disgorgement, 2019 L’Ermitage was aged an additional seven months on the cork prior to release.

While 2018 was a cool year with pronounced acidity, vintage 2019 was more balanced, with abundant rain up until late May and very limited spring frost. Moderate temperatures, but warmer than 2018, led to a healthy crop in quantity and quality. Berry size was large, allowing for great juicing, lower acidity and a wide array of wine choices for blending. Vintage 2019 features aromas of quince paste and light pastry crust. The entry is bright and textured midpalate. A mouthwatering finish is highlighted by pear skin and an even, creamy texture.