“A difficult vintage,” says Jean-Louis, and one generally considered the second-worst of the decade after the washout 2002. It was certainly wet, but great terroir is great terroir, and this is nonetheless a very enjoyable wine, and ready to drink now. It has a herbal note to the aromatic profile – thyme, rosemary and juniper – and raspberry fruits. It won’t last as long as a typical vintage, but is fresh and very drinkable. Consider drinking this with less powerfully-flavoured food than you might normally with red Hermitage.