Jean-Louis Chave
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave is often called the “Pope of Hermitage”. From the tiny village of Mauves, just south of Hermitage in the norther Rhône, Chave’s traditionally made wine is the “top of the hierarchy” (Jeb Dunnuck) in Heritage. The Chave family owns plots in all 7 of the lieux-dits (special plots) on the famous Hermitage hill (see image below), which enables them to produce wines of stunning complexity and finesse.
Domaine Chave was founded in 1481. It has been blessed with an “incredible succession of talented vignerons” (Jeb Dunnuck) through the ages. Gérard Chave ran the estate until Gérard before slowly handing over to son Jean-Louis Chave. This is a traditional estate which keeps an eye on the future (a recently completed new cellar includes a state-of-the-art lab). Vinification is in three large oak upright casks. Aging is in small French oak barrels with the amount of new oak falling in the 20-30% range. The wines are then blended in tank and bottled without being filtered. If needed, the wines can see a light egg-white fining before bottling.
Domaine Chave was founded in 1481. It has been blessed with an “incredible succession of talented vignerons” (Jeb Dunnuck) through the ages. Gérard Chave ran the estate until Gérard before slowly handing over to son Jean-Louis Chave. This is a traditional estate which keeps an eye on the future (a recently completed new cellar includes a state-of-the-art lab). Vinification is in three large oak upright casks. Aging is in small French oak barrels with the amount of new oak falling in the 20-30% range. The wines are then blended in tank and bottled without being filtered. If needed, the wines can see a light egg-white fining before bottling.
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Prices:
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(6x75cl) 2008Jeb Dunnuck (95)
Steely and crisp, with dominating crushed rock like minerality that’s buffered by notions of golden apples, citrus, flowers, toasted nuts, and crème, the 2008 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc fleshes out beautifully in the glass to show a medium to full-bodied, energetic texture, solid concentration, and juicy acidity that shines on the lengthy finish. This took the better part of the evening to fully flesh out, so do not be afraid to give this air if drinking anytime soon. Given the concentration and acid levels, this should age effortlessly for 20+ years.Inc. GSTSG$2,000.63 -
Inc. GSTSG$624.46 -
Inc. GSTSG$1,666.29 -
(6x75cl) 1995Wine Advocate (97)
When I arrived at 6:00 p.m., September 11, 2001, at Domaine Chave, I found Chave in tears and his family distraught. I had heard about the attacks on the World Trade Center, but not the subsequent collapse of both towers. Gerard Chave knows all about suicidal bombers, having served in the French military during the Algerian revolution. It took a long time to gather sufficient focus to do my tastings. However, the brilliant wines that unfolded in the cellars were, at least for several hours, a much needed antidote for pushing to the back of my mind the horror of 9-11-01.Inc. GSTSG$92,471.76 -
(6x75cl) 2000Vinous (97)
Chave’s 2000 Cuvée Cathelin was monumental. It was a privilege to taste, but also a shame to open so early. If the 1991 seemed young, the 2000 came across as a veritable new-born.Inc. GSTSG$85,730.11 -
Vinous (99+)
Who knows when, if ever, this will be sold, but what the hell. Inky purple. Positively explosive aromas of mulberry, creme de mure, exotic chocolate, musky herbs, pungent flowers and smoky game, with wild potpourri and resin notes. Thick, chewy and almost ridiculously sweet, with the concentration, weight and fruit intensity of a great vintage port, yet with amazing freshness and energy. The finish builds endlessly, deepening and sweetening, and displaying simply remarkable persistence and a clinging raspberry liqueur note. I think I was tasting this the next morning. "I am so happy that I was able to make this wine with my father. If he hadn't been here to watch this it would have been very sad," Jean-Louis concluded.Inc. GSTSG$39,610.27 -
(1x75cl) 1978Vinous (92)
Deep saturated ruby-red; amazing retention of color for a 20-year-old wine. Penetrating aromas of black plum, game, truffle and iron filings. A drier, older style of Hermitage with powerful structure and fruit of steel. Finishes with superb grip and persistence. Has the cut and intensity to serve as perfect accompaniment to sweetbreads or richly sauced game dishes.Inc. GSTSG$4,016.54 -
Vintage Tastings (95)
. Next up was a superb wine that most were convinced was a Guigal La La wine. There was so much menthol, bacon and violety fruit it had to be! The palate was meaty, fine and long with great purityInc. GSTSG$7,057.10 -
(1x75cl) 1988Vinous (98)
One of my favorite wines of the night, the 1988 Hermitage is simply breathtaking in its beauty and profoundness. Sage, rosemary, sweet tobacco and dried flowers are some of the many notes that lift from the glass in a translucent, weightless, yet wonderfully deep wine. May I have another glass, please? Wow…Inc. GSTSG$1,431.80 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (100)
This is thrilling to swirl, sniff and sip from the moment the wine hits your glass. Elegant, concentrated, long, rich and refined, the smoky, earthy, rock-strewn fruits grace your palate and linger for at least 60 seconds! Prices for this gem have really shot up over the past few years. If you are lucky enough to have a bottle or two, or you have the disposable income, this is a heart-stopping tasting experience.Inc. GSTSG$29,318.78 -
(1x75cl) 1995Vinous (97)
The 1995 Hermitage, on the other hand, is totally sublime. Rose petal, black pepper, dried flowers and sage are some of the many Syrah-inflected aromas that blossom in the glass in a perfumed, sensual wine that captivates all of the senses. With just six people at the table, there is plenty of wine to go around. This is a dazzling showing.Inc. GSTSG$1,143.31 -
(1x75cl) 1996Vinous (92)
The 1996 L'Hermitage sits near the end of its broad drinking window, opening with earthy scents, dried red fruits and mushroom tones. Built on gently grippy tannins and fresh acidity, the medium-bodied 1996 concludes with a distinctively refined last touch.Inc. GSTSG$834.83 -
Inc. GSTSG$982.72 -
(12x75cl) 2001Inc. GSTSG$12,919.73 -
(1x300cl) 2001Inc. GSTSG$4,522.76 -
Inc. GSTSG$5,969.36 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I’ve rated the 2003 Hermitage perfect on numerous occasions, and while sound bottles are still as good as it gets, I’ve also had some tired bottles here in the States, so provenance is critical with this vintage. Still youthfully colored yet just starting to show some maturity in its aromatics of blackberries, dark currants, licorice, spice box, and leather, this fabulously textured, opulent 2003 hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a wealth of sweet tannins, and a monster of a finish. Clearing 15% alcohol (and I think the pH is probably around 4), it should be a required tasting for all those touting the low alcohol nonsense. This singular beauty can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for another two decades, if you’re so inclined.Inc. GSTSG$12,037.74 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I’ve rated the 2003 Hermitage perfect on numerous occasions, and while sound bottles are still as good as it gets, I’ve also had some tired bottles here in the States, so provenance is critical with this vintage. Still youthfully colored yet just starting to show some maturity in its aromatics of blackberries, dark currants, licorice, spice box, and leather, this fabulously textured, opulent 2003 hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a wealth of sweet tannins, and a monster of a finish. Clearing 15% alcohol (and I think the pH is probably around 4), it should be a required tasting for all those touting the low alcohol nonsense. This singular beauty can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for another two decades, if you’re so inclined.Inc. GSTSG$5,689.15 -
(3x150cl) 2005Vinous - Josh Raynolds (96-99)
From Peleat: Racy, fragrant and pure, with intense raspberry and strawberry fruit and strong minerality. This could be a Chambolle. Beaume: Dark chocolate, graphite, smoked meat and magnolia aromas, followed by deep, inky dark fruits. L'Ermite: Rich, chewy and tannic, with powerful cherry flavor and great depth. Meal: Explosive, pure blackberry and blueberry, with superb intensity and length. Bessards (this sample is 16% natural alcohol): Intensely floral, with strong licorice and mineral notes. Dense and sweet, with deep cassis flavor and outstanding length. The final wine should rank among the great Chave vintages.Inc. GSTSG$5,243.38 -
A nearly faultless Hermitage from a faultless vintage, this Chave is deep, intense and seemingly ageless after nine years. Increasingly smokey, meaty yet intensely fruited, it brings to mind a barbecued venison joint with forest fruit compote. Exceptional.Inc. GSTSG$4,005.10 -
(12x75cl) 2009Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.Inc. GSTSG$15,859.33 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.Inc. GSTSG$900.96 -
(6x75cl) 2009Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.Inc. GSTSG$5,583.44 -
(12x75cl) 2010Vinous (98)
We compared a magnum of 2010 L’Hermitage from Domaine J.L. Chave that was consistent with the magnum poured at Medlar just a few weeks earlier.Inc. GSTSG$19,374.58 -
(6x75cl) 2010Vinous (98)
We compared a magnum of 2010 L’Hermitage from Domaine J.L. Chave that was consistent with the magnum poured at Medlar just a few weeks earlier.Inc. GSTSG$8,226.69 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
Tasted from bottle, the 2011 Hermitage sports a ruby/purple color to go with an awesome bouquet of sweet cassis, dried flowers, spice-box, ground pepper and crushed stone. One of the more serious, focused and structured 2011s, it has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless texture. Give it 5-6 years and enjoy bottles over the following 2 decades or more.Inc. GSTSG$6,676.08 -
(6x75cl) 2011Wine Advocate (96+)
Tasted from bottle, the 2011 Hermitage sports a ruby/purple color to go with an awesome bouquet of sweet cassis, dried flowers, spice-box, ground pepper and crushed stone. One of the more serious, focused and structured 2011s, it has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless texture. Give it 5-6 years and enjoy bottles over the following 2 decades or more.Inc. GSTSG$3,327.14 -
Wine Advocate (96)
One of the more charming and forward efforts from Chave, the 2012 Hermitage sports a mostly opaque purple color to go with classic creme de cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notions of lead pencil shavings, violets and powdered rocks. Deep, full-bodied and sumptuously textured, with good freshness, this pure, elegant Hermitage shows more and more definition and cut with time in the glass, but never loses it's more fruit forward, charming profile. I suspect it will drink nicely for most of its life.Inc. GSTSG$8,633.76 -
Wine Advocate (96)
One of the more charming and forward efforts from Chave, the 2012 Hermitage sports a mostly opaque purple color to go with classic creme de cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notions of lead pencil shavings, violets and powdered rocks. Deep, full-bodied and sumptuously textured, with good freshness, this pure, elegant Hermitage shows more and more definition and cut with time in the glass, but never loses it's more fruit forward, charming profile. I suspect it will drink nicely for most of its life.Inc. GSTSG$2,818.13 -
Vinous (96-97)
(this wine is the final blend and was resting in holding tanks in preparation for bottling, "probably in March," according to Chave): Inky ruby. Vibrant black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by suggestions of candied flowers, incense and licorice, and a bright mineral nuance adds lift. Sweet, fleshy and focused, offering palate-staining cherry compote, black raspberry and violet pastille flavors accented by smoky Indian spices and a hint of cracked pepper. Shows impressive depth but comes off surprisingly lithe, finishing with superb focus and length and fine-grained tannins that sneak in slowly.Inc. GSTSG$6,676.08
-
(6x75cl) 2008
Jeb Dunnuck (95)
Steely and crisp, with dominating crushed rock like minerality that’s buffered by notions of golden apples, citrus, flowers, toasted nuts, and crème, the 2008 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc fleshes out beautifully in the glass to show a medium to full-bodied, energetic texture, solid concentration, and juicy acidity that shines on the lengthy finish. This took the better part of the evening to fully flesh out, so do not be afraid to give this air if drinking anytime soon. Given the concentration and acid levels, this should age effortlessly for 20+ years.In BondSG$1,780.00 -
In BondSG$563.00
-
In BondSG$1,500.00
-
(6x75cl) 1995
Wine Advocate (97)
When I arrived at 6:00 p.m., September 11, 2001, at Domaine Chave, I found Chave in tears and his family distraught. I had heard about the attacks on the World Trade Center, but not the subsequent collapse of both towers. Gerard Chave knows all about suicidal bombers, having served in the French military during the Algerian revolution. It took a long time to gather sufficient focus to do my tastings. However, the brilliant wines that unfolded in the cellars were, at least for several hours, a much needed antidote for pushing to the back of my mind the horror of 9-11-01.In BondSG$84,785.00 -
(6x75cl) 2000
Vinous (97)
Chave’s 2000 Cuvée Cathelin was monumental. It was a privilege to taste, but also a shame to open so early. If the 1991 seemed young, the 2000 came across as a veritable new-born.In BondSG$78,600.00 -
Vinous (99+)
Who knows when, if ever, this will be sold, but what the hell. Inky purple. Positively explosive aromas of mulberry, creme de mure, exotic chocolate, musky herbs, pungent flowers and smoky game, with wild potpourri and resin notes. Thick, chewy and almost ridiculously sweet, with the concentration, weight and fruit intensity of a great vintage port, yet with amazing freshness and energy. The finish builds endlessly, deepening and sweetening, and displaying simply remarkable persistence and a clinging raspberry liqueur note. I think I was tasting this the next morning. "I am so happy that I was able to make this wine with my father. If he hadn't been here to watch this it would have been very sad," Jean-Louis concluded.In BondSG$36,310.00 -
(1x75cl) 1978
Vinous (92)
Deep saturated ruby-red; amazing retention of color for a 20-year-old wine. Penetrating aromas of black plum, game, truffle and iron filings. A drier, older style of Hermitage with powerful structure and fruit of steel. Finishes with superb grip and persistence. Has the cut and intensity to serve as perfect accompaniment to sweetbreads or richly sauced game dishes.In BondSG$3,675.00 -
Vintage Tastings (95)
. Next up was a superb wine that most were convinced was a Guigal La La wine. There was so much menthol, bacon and violety fruit it had to be! The palate was meaty, fine and long with great purityIn BondSG$6,415.00 -
(1x75cl) 1988
Vinous (98)
One of my favorite wines of the night, the 1988 Hermitage is simply breathtaking in its beauty and profoundness. Sage, rosemary, sweet tobacco and dried flowers are some of the many notes that lift from the glass in a translucent, weightless, yet wonderfully deep wine. May I have another glass, please? Wow…In BondSG$1,305.00 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (100)
This is thrilling to swirl, sniff and sip from the moment the wine hits your glass. Elegant, concentrated, long, rich and refined, the smoky, earthy, rock-strewn fruits grace your palate and linger for at least 60 seconds! Prices for this gem have really shot up over the past few years. If you are lucky enough to have a bottle or two, or you have the disposable income, this is a heart-stopping tasting experience.In BondSG$26,795.00 -
(1x75cl) 1995
Vinous (97)
The 1995 Hermitage, on the other hand, is totally sublime. Rose petal, black pepper, dried flowers and sage are some of the many Syrah-inflected aromas that blossom in the glass in a perfumed, sensual wine that captivates all of the senses. With just six people at the table, there is plenty of wine to go around. This is a dazzling showing.In BondSG$1,040.00 -
(1x75cl) 1996
Vinous (92)
The 1996 L'Hermitage sits near the end of its broad drinking window, opening with earthy scents, dried red fruits and mushroom tones. Built on gently grippy tannins and fresh acidity, the medium-bodied 1996 concludes with a distinctively refined last touch.In BondSG$756.00 -
In BondSG$893.00
-
(12x75cl) 2001In BondSG$11,750.00
-
(1x300cl) 2001In BondSG$4,115.00
-
In BondSG$5,425.00
-
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I’ve rated the 2003 Hermitage perfect on numerous occasions, and while sound bottles are still as good as it gets, I’ve also had some tired bottles here in the States, so provenance is critical with this vintage. Still youthfully colored yet just starting to show some maturity in its aromatics of blackberries, dark currants, licorice, spice box, and leather, this fabulously textured, opulent 2003 hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a wealth of sweet tannins, and a monster of a finish. Clearing 15% alcohol (and I think the pH is probably around 4), it should be a required tasting for all those touting the low alcohol nonsense. This singular beauty can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for another two decades, if you’re so inclined.In BondSG$10,925.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I’ve rated the 2003 Hermitage perfect on numerous occasions, and while sound bottles are still as good as it gets, I’ve also had some tired bottles here in the States, so provenance is critical with this vintage. Still youthfully colored yet just starting to show some maturity in its aromatics of blackberries, dark currants, licorice, spice box, and leather, this fabulously textured, opulent 2003 hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a wealth of sweet tannins, and a monster of a finish. Clearing 15% alcohol (and I think the pH is probably around 4), it should be a required tasting for all those touting the low alcohol nonsense. This singular beauty can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for another two decades, if you’re so inclined.In BondSG$5,160.00 -
(3x150cl) 2005
Vinous - Josh Raynolds (96-99)
From Peleat: Racy, fragrant and pure, with intense raspberry and strawberry fruit and strong minerality. This could be a Chambolle. Beaume: Dark chocolate, graphite, smoked meat and magnolia aromas, followed by deep, inky dark fruits. L'Ermite: Rich, chewy and tannic, with powerful cherry flavor and great depth. Meal: Explosive, pure blackberry and blueberry, with superb intensity and length. Bessards (this sample is 16% natural alcohol): Intensely floral, with strong licorice and mineral notes. Dense and sweet, with deep cassis flavor and outstanding length. The final wine should rank among the great Chave vintages.In BondSG$4,755.00 -
A nearly faultless Hermitage from a faultless vintage, this Chave is deep, intense and seemingly ageless after nine years. Increasingly smokey, meaty yet intensely fruited, it brings to mind a barbecued venison joint with forest fruit compote. Exceptional.In BondSG$3,615.00
-
(12x75cl) 2009
Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.In BondSG$14,435.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.In BondSG$817.00 -
(6x75cl) 2009
Wine Advocate (100)
The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty.In BondSG$5,065.00 -
(12x75cl) 2010
Vinous (98)
We compared a magnum of 2010 L’Hermitage from Domaine J.L. Chave that was consistent with the magnum poured at Medlar just a few weeks earlier.In BondSG$17,660.00 -
(6x75cl) 2010
Vinous (98)
We compared a magnum of 2010 L’Hermitage from Domaine J.L. Chave that was consistent with the magnum poured at Medlar just a few weeks earlier.In BondSG$7,490.00 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
Tasted from bottle, the 2011 Hermitage sports a ruby/purple color to go with an awesome bouquet of sweet cassis, dried flowers, spice-box, ground pepper and crushed stone. One of the more serious, focused and structured 2011s, it has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless texture. Give it 5-6 years and enjoy bottles over the following 2 decades or more.In BondSG$6,010.00 -
(6x75cl) 2011
Wine Advocate (96+)
Tasted from bottle, the 2011 Hermitage sports a ruby/purple color to go with an awesome bouquet of sweet cassis, dried flowers, spice-box, ground pepper and crushed stone. One of the more serious, focused and structured 2011s, it has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless texture. Give it 5-6 years and enjoy bottles over the following 2 decades or more.In BondSG$2,995.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
One of the more charming and forward efforts from Chave, the 2012 Hermitage sports a mostly opaque purple color to go with classic creme de cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notions of lead pencil shavings, violets and powdered rocks. Deep, full-bodied and sumptuously textured, with good freshness, this pure, elegant Hermitage shows more and more definition and cut with time in the glass, but never loses it's more fruit forward, charming profile. I suspect it will drink nicely for most of its life.In BondSG$7,810.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
One of the more charming and forward efforts from Chave, the 2012 Hermitage sports a mostly opaque purple color to go with classic creme de cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notions of lead pencil shavings, violets and powdered rocks. Deep, full-bodied and sumptuously textured, with good freshness, this pure, elegant Hermitage shows more and more definition and cut with time in the glass, but never loses it's more fruit forward, charming profile. I suspect it will drink nicely for most of its life.In BondSG$2,530.00 -
Vinous (96-97)
(this wine is the final blend and was resting in holding tanks in preparation for bottling, "probably in March," according to Chave): Inky ruby. Vibrant black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by suggestions of candied flowers, incense and licorice, and a bright mineral nuance adds lift. Sweet, fleshy and focused, offering palate-staining cherry compote, black raspberry and violet pastille flavors accented by smoky Indian spices and a hint of cracked pepper. Shows impressive depth but comes off surprisingly lithe, finishing with superb focus and length and fine-grained tannins that sneak in slowly.In BondSG$6,010.00
