M. Chapoutier Ermitage L’Ermite 2009

From pre-phylloxera Marsanne vines that are over 100 years of age and are not planted on American root stocks, the 2009 Ermitage l’Ermite Blanc (229 cases) reveals abundant notes of honeysuckle, a liqueur of wet stones, tannin (which no doubt comes from the sappiness in these old vines), extraordinary minerality, white fruits, quince and citrus oil. This amazing white wine must be tasted to be believed. It is so structured, intense and rich that it will unquestionably keep for a century. Score – 100. (Robert Parker Jr., robertparker.com, Dec. 22, 2011)