1998 Hermitage Le Chevalier de Sterimberg

Interesting and ageworthy is the Hermitage Chevalier de Sterimberg, a blend of 50% Roussanne and 50% Marsanne, that is encouraged to go through malolactic fermentation. The fat 1998 Hermitage Chevalier de Sterimberg reveals terrific texture, a big, full-bodied, powerhouse style, and exceptional purity and concentration. The wine is drinkable at present, but it will undoubtedly close down in 3-4 years, not to re-emerge for a decade. Feb 2001, www.robertparker.com

Deep aromas of honey, nuts and spicy oak, plus a slight leesy complexity. Ripe and sweet but quite suave and light on its feet. Bright and fruity. Long, perfumed back end. This is 14% alcohol and finished with less than a gram per liter residual sugar, but it is neither heavy nor excessively dry.