Domaine Jean-Louis Chave
Jean-Louis Chave is one of the most important and most iconic producers in the Northern Rhône. Having been passed down through the generations for over 500 years, the domaine’s commitment to quality remains steadfast. They are one of the largest landowners on the hill of Hermitage, with 9.3 hectares of organically-grown Syrah holdings across some of the most important terroirs, including parcels of Les Bessards (considered the finest of their vineyards), Le Méal, Les Roucoules and l’Hermite among others. There are a further four hectares of Hermitage dedicated to white grapes - Marsanne and Roussanne. They don’t make any single parcel wines, instead three wines are released each vintage; their iconic Hermitage, Hermitage Blanc and a Saint-Joseph. Their style is achieved through expert blending to showcase the finest qualities across their vineyards, soils and vintage conditions, and their Hermitage is considered the benchmark for the region. In particularly good vintages JL Chave produces a limited quantity of their top wine, Cuvée Cathelin, which is distinguished by the use of french oak barrels and the finest grapes from Les Bessards. Since Jean-Louis Chave took the helm from his father in 1992, he has expanded the family’s holdings in Saint-Joseph and started his own, very successful negociant business.