Professional Reviews
Antonio Galloni
AG
90
"Medium ruby. Black cherry, licorice, pepper and tar on the nose. Very dry but classy and aromatic, with currant fruit complicated by licorice, pepper, leather and fresh herbs. Rather bracing for a young Chave wine, and difficult to taste after the 2003, but the wine's aromatic persistence suggests it will reward aging. Late notes of pepper and gunflint." -Stephen Tanzer
Robert Parker
RP
94
"One of the candidates for the Rhone Valley’s 'wine of the vintage' is Chave’s 2002 Hermitage. A draconian selection has resulted in a deep ruby/purple-colored offering revealing sweet notes of melted licorice, briery berries, earth, and herbs. Medium to full-bodied, pure, elegant, and intense, this forward-styled Hermitage appears to be better than the 1992, 1993, and 1994, which are all fine wines that are holding up well. The 2002 should be at its peak between 2005-2015. What Chave accomplished in the extremely challenging 2002 vintage is unquestionably noteworthy. Not because of tiny yields and small grapes, but due to Chave’s decision to eliminate every grape except the very best, 2002 is a small crop."
Wine Spectator
WS
92
"A tough row to hoe after the '03, this lighter vintage has progressed nicely, with supple plum and currant notes giving way to hints of dried cherry and plum skin. Elegant lilac and cedar notes have moved in on the finish, which is ever-so-slightly firm.—Non-blind Chave vertical (June 2012). Drink now through 2020."
Details
-
Grape Variety
-
Vintage
2002
-
Size
750ml
-
Farming Practice
Traditional