The 2004 Hermitage is fully mature and reveals pretty, perfumed and nuanced notes of black cherries, dried flowers, spice and pepper. Medium-bodied, nicely balanced, with good acidity, plenty of mid-palate depth and sweet tannin, it's a rock-solid effort in the vintage and should drink nicely for at least another 4-5 years, although there's no need to delay gratification.

An elegant, perfumy style, with sandalwood, black tea and cocoa powder notes leading the way for supple black cherry and currant fruit. There's nice length on the silky finish. Drink now through 2011. 3,750 cases made. -JM