J.L. Chave Hermitage Blanc (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2005

"Dense and packed, but amazingly bright at the same time, this offers dried papaya and pineapple fruit backed by a paraffin note, with fresh floral, white peach and heather honey notes. Then the long, superstony finish takes over, and sails on nearly endlessly. This has power, precision and refinement all together. Drink now through 2030. 1,200 cases made."

98 Points

Wine Spectator

"Pale gold. Fabulously complex nose evokes honeyed pear, apricot, shiso leaf and botanical herbs. Creamy orchard fruit flavors are firmed by juicy minerality, becoming brighter and more bitter with air. This has the texture of a serious red wine, offering dense, chewy pear, yellow plum and peach skin flavors and picking up licorice and toasted nuts on the long, sappy finish, which ends with a whiplash of smoky minerals. Does this ever let up? An incredible young wine."

97 Points

International Wine Cellar

"The 2005 Hermitage blanc is an amazing effort that defines the classic style of white Hermitage. It offers hints of marzipan, roasted hazelnuts, quince, licorice, honeysuckle, citrus oil, and wet stones. It is a superbly concentrated and powerful wine. It should drink well for 30+ years. "

96 Points

The Wine Advocate