TN: Hermitage 1998 J-L Chave

Purchased on release from Kermit Lynch. Opened and poured a few ounces.

The color was a translucent medium ruby red with just a very very slight bricking around the edges.

The nose was very pretty with cherry and raspberry fruit scents, a touch floral, and a bit of earthiness.

After a small taste it seemed like some air (and some food) was needed so we let it rest.

About three hours later the wine was poured with a nice grilled Flannery pork cap. On the palate this was a bit austere. There was tart cherry fruit, a touch of minerality and earthiness, good acidity, and some drying tannins. A nice bottle that definitely needed the fat in the pork cap.

I don’t think the palate ever lived up to what the nose promised. Still a very nice bottle but not anywhere near some of the really fine Chave Hermitage I have tried.
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Very sorry to hear this didn’t live up to its promise and reputation. I’ve been luckier - the bottles I’ve had have been spectacular.

Perhaps slower evolution than others due to a cold cellar?