Hermitage — The Legendary Jewel of the Northern Rhône

Revered for both its red and white wines, Hermitage stands as the crown jewel of the Northern Rhône. Situated on the left bank of the Rhône River, opposite Tain-l’Hermitage, this mythical 136-hectare vineyard has dominated the landscape for centuries. Its name comes from the hermit Henri Gaspard de Sterimberg, a crusader who returned from the Holy Land in the 13th century and is said to have planted the first vines on the hill. Today, Hermitage remains a symbol of perfect balance — power, nobility, and longevity.

A Unique Terroir

The soils of the Hermitage hill form a mosaic of granite, fluvio-glacial alluvium, and calcareous sand, arranged in steep, sun-drenched terraces facing south and southeast. This geological diversity, combined with optimal sunlight exposure and natural drainage, produces wines of remarkable aromatic intensity and depth.

The most famous lieux-dits — Le Méal, Les Bessards, L’Hermite, Les Greffieux, and Les Rocoules — each bring their own nuance to the final blend.

Hermitage Rouge — Power and Elegance United

Grape variety: Syrah (with up to 15% Marsanne and Roussanne allowed by regulation).

Aromatic profile:

• Young: red fruits, violet, black pepper.
• Mature: stone fruits, green olives, evolving toward forest floor, leather, truffle, and game.

On the palate, Hermitage Rouge is dense, structured, and powerful, yet the tannins are polished and refined. With time, the wine gains silkiness, length, and a Burgundian elegance. It reaches its peak after 15 to 30 years, or even longer in exceptional vintages.

Iconic Producers:

• Domaine Jean-Louis Chave
• Maison M. Chapoutier
• Domaine Marc Sorrel
• Maison Paul Jaboulet Aîné (La Chapelle)

Food Pairings:

• Roast game and venison
• Prime rib of beef
• Rack of lamb
• Truffle dishes and rich sauces
• Aged cheeses

Hermitage Blanc — Floral Nobility and Timeless Grace

Grape varieties: Marsanne and Roussanne.

Aromatic profile:

• Young: iris, narcissus, linden blossom.
• Mature: vanilla, roasted almond, honey, beeswax.

Hermitage Blanc is rich, enveloping, and precise — combining power and delicacy. Its silky texture and fine minerality allow it to age gracefully for 30 to 50 years, gaining in aromatic depth over time.

Iconic Producers:

• Domaine Jean-Louis Chave
• Maison M. Chapoutier
• Domaine Marc Sorrel
• Maison Paul Jaboulet Aîné

Food Pairings:

• Lobster
• Seared foie gras
• Bresse chicken with cream sauce
• Mushroom risotto
• Soft cheeses

Hermitage: A Timeless Benchmark

Hermitage embodies the full grandeur of the Northern Rhône in two remarkable expressions: the controlled power of Syrah and the sunlit grace of Marsanne and Roussanne. These are wines of depth, emotion, and extraordinary ageing potential — true global benchmarks of balance and nobility.