Domaine du Colombier : Hermitage 2020

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Domaine du Colombier Hermitage 2020

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a deep, bright garnet hue, lifted by violet highlights that reflect fine concentration.

Nose

The bouquet is heady and gradually unfolds. The first notes evoke blueberry coulis, alongside aromas of fireplace hearth, graphite and roasted chestnut. The aromatic palette then grows in complexity with animal nuances of leather and spicy touches of clove.

Palate

The palate is fleshy and complete, supported by an imposing structure. The tannins, both powerful and well-balanced, provide fine complexity. The wine’s remarkable breadth is paired with elegant, discreet oak. The finish lingers generously on licorice notes, while a striking freshness balances the overall power.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs perfectly with robust red meats such as a herb-crusted rack of lamb with herbes de Provence or a roasted cut of beef. It also accompanies furred game such as venison or wild boar with elegance. A gratin dauphinois will highlight its silky tannins, while wild mushrooms, truffles or pepper-sauce preparations will reveal its full aromatic complexity.

Serving and cellaring

It is recommended to serve the Hermitage 2020 between 16 and 18°C. Opening one hour in advance, or decanting for at least one hour, will allow the aromas to fully develop. This robust wine, with dusty tannins and lively acidity, needs time to reveal its full stature. It is best enjoyed between around 2027 and 2035.

An Hermitage from the Rhône Valley combining power and freshness

The estate

Established in 1991 when Florent Viale decided to bottle his production, the Domaine du Colombier is located in Tain-l'Hermitage, in the Drôme, at the heart of the Northern Rhône Valley. Now run by brothers Florent and David Viale, the estate carries on a family legacy that began after the First World War. With 16 hectares of vines cultivated according to a philosophy close to organic farming, the estate stands out for its natural viticulture and hand harvesting. Renowned for its balanced, elegant wines, it has received several “coup de cœur” awards from the Guide Hachette des Vins.

The vineyard

The Hermitage comes from plots located in the center of the appellation, notably Les Beaumes and Les Dionnières. These exceptional terroirs rest on granitic soils made up of brown sand and Würm pebbly deposits. The region’s continental climate, combined with these distinctive soils, provides a unique expression of terroir. The vines benefit from a privileged exposure on the prestigious Hermitage hillside, allowing optimal ripening of the grapes.

The vintage

The 2020 vintage in the Northern Rhône Valley is marked by a remarkable balance between warmth and freshness. These climatic conditions enabled a fine expression of the appellation’s unique terroir, producing wines with great freshness despite their natural power. The combination of granitic soils and a continental climate encouraged harmonious ripening of the grapes.

Vinification and aging

The Hermitage 2020 is vinified traditionally, with 50% destemming. Maceration lasts 3 weeks in temperature-controlled vats. Aging takes place for 18 months in 600-liter demi-muids, with one third new oak and two thirds barrels used for a single wine. This approach brings nuanced complexity without excessive oak influence.

Grape variety

100% Syrah