1996 Hermitage Chante Alouette
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Tasting notes
All of Chapoutier's 1996 white wines were made from small yields, and all possess more acidity than normal, but they are generally dominated by their respective terroirs. The 1996 Hermitage Chante Alouette (made from yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare) is extremely rich and powerful . It offers a honeysuckle-like nose reminiscent of Condrieu, along with pear-like flavors. The wine is medium to full-bodied, and lighter than the blockbuster 1995.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Expressive, oaky aromas of smoke and resin, with a toasty aspect. Quite dry but textured in the mouth, with lively honey and lemon flavors. Firm and persistent; seems a bit more convincing on the back end than the '97. More focused then it was last year just after the bottling.