Jean-louis Chave, Hermitage, Rhône Valley 2007

From the record

JEAN-LOUIS CHAVE, HERMITAGE, RHÔNE VALLEY 2007 is documented in the Cartelier archive as served at Protégé in Palo Alto, CA. It appears on the menu of October 31, 2021, one of 6 items served that wine. As printed, the kitchen describes it: Jean-Louis Chave represents the 16th generation of unbroken winemaking lineage in the Northern Rhône Valley dating back to 1481. Jean Louis joined his father Gérard in 1992 after earning a degree in oenology at UC Davis. The key to perfect balance is in their mastery of blending. The Chave family has never released a single vineyard Hermitage. Produced from 100% Syrah, the wine is assembled from outstanding vineyards throughout the region. However, the backbone comes from 50-80 year-old vines located in the steep, granitic “Les Bessards.” The Chave methods are thoroughly traditional—low yields, whole-cluster fermentation, and minimal new oak. The result is the haunting aroma of lavender and Herbs de Provence, followed by powerful flavors of black and blue berries, pepper bacon, and scorched earth. IDEAL DRINKING WINDOW: 2022-2032 FOOD PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS: Fantastic with grilled or roasted pork, game, beef, or lamb, as well as most smoked meats. It is also very good with hearty Asian-inspired dishes. DECANT: 1-2 hours in advance STEMWARE: Large glasses such as Zalto Denk’Art Bordeaux or Riedel Sommeliers Hermitage Grand Cru IDEAL SERVICE TEMPERATURE: 65°F. Every appearance below preserves the menu exactly as published — source, hash, and date — so this dish can be read as it stood on any documented evening.