Cassis and crushed stone join on the nose of the 2017 Ermitage le Pavillon. More austere than les Geffieux or le Méal, le Pavillon is rooted more firmly in granite, with crisply defined edges and firm tannins. It's impressive for sure, full-bodied, loaded with extract and almost creamy across the mid-palate, but ultimately it needs time. Give it 10 years to soften and develop a bit more charm—it has the concentrated dark fruit to carry it the distance.

This is laden with warm, lush plum, cassis and blackberry puree flavors that glide through atop a loamy spine, adding anise, fruitcake, baker's chocolate and worn leather notes through the finish. A seductive wine. Best from 2023 through 2038. 48 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Ermitage Select to Add