Sourced from Le Méal and aged in 100% new French oak, the 2020 Hermitage yields up primarily menthol and vanilla notes on the nose. Oaked to within an inch of its life, it's spicy, vanilla-laden and drying on the finish, with just hints of red fruit poking through.

Aged solely in older barrels, the 2019 Hermitage is light years ahead of the vanilla-laden 2020. Full-bodied, richly tannic and velvety in feel, it delivers ample plum fruit, accented with savory, meaty overtones.

Hints of violets mark the nose of the 2017 Hermitage, joined by blueberries and raspberries. While not the most profoundly complex wine to bear this appellation, it's a solid effort that's already approachable. Medium to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a soft, easygoing finish, the muscle of Hermitage is well marbled here—fatty and juicy, fruit-froward and seemingly built with early drinkability in mind.

The 2015 Hermitage is a clear step up over the 2013 and yields a young, concentrated, medium to full-bodied personality. With an inky purple color, classic notes of cassis, graphite and licorice, ripe tannin and solid lenght, it should benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and shine for a decade.

While not made in 2011 or 2012, there should be a 2014 Hermitage, although it looks to be a fair click back from the borderline outstanding 2010. Giving up more floral, spice and raspberry nuances, it's medium-bodied, charming and forward, and should drink nicely right out of the gate.