Domaine Belle 2016 | Hermitage
Vineyards in Les Murets, commune of Tain l’Hermitage permeable limestone, sand and gravel soil. Organic manuring, reasoned use of natural phytosanitary treatments, close pruning, leaf thinning, green harvesting if necessary, harvesting by hand. 100% Syrah.
Vinification traditional in temperature – controlled stainless steel vats, no destemming, daily pumping over and punching down, a final warm maceration, fiveweek fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Ageing entirely in oak barrels for 26 months, with 50% new barrels and 50% oneyear old barrels.
PARKER: 95
An April hailstorm cut Hermitage yields at Domaine Belle by 50%, but the final quality was unimpacted (and maybe even improved). The 2016 Hermitage features hints of cedar and baking spices on the nose but also black cherries and black olives. This medium to full-bodied wine (it's only 13.5% alcohol) seems bigger, with plenty of depth and richness and a long, elegant finish. Powerful yet balanced, it's already approachable yet seems sure to age well for at least 15 years.