Life is too short to drink bad wine

It's not often one comes across an older Hermitage for less than 30€, but here it is. Dark red coloured wine a delicious dark fruit smell with some pepper on the nose as well. Lots of structure and fruit in the mouth with a compact well balanced aftertaste. Not a top Hermitage but it is very good value for money and is drinking really nicely right now and for the next 5 years. Hermitage 2007 Domaine des Martinelles Ca 27€

This is the first time I have tried a white Hermitage and what a surprise. The grape is Marsanne 100% grown on the steep hills above the small town of Tain l'Hermitage. This was also consumed at Bofinger in Paris and was also decanted. Before decanted it was like marzipan and almonds, but after decanting and some waiting it opened up in an explosion of white flowers, nuts, honey and ginger. Very attractive indeed. The taste was full-bodied, beautifully balanced and long. A great white wine. Chante-Alouette 2008 Hermitage Chapoutier Ca 50€

This is a super lovely Hermitage which is drinking beautifully already now. Dense dark fruit with a small hint of spice (pepper) on the nose. Delightful full bodied taste packed with delicate dark fruit and a velvety long finish. This is just sooo delicious! Expensive , but this must be one of the top Hermitage available outside France. Hermitage 2010 Domaine du Colombier Ca 40-60€

90% Syrah mixed with 10% Marsanne to make this wonderful Hermitage from the plot called "Le Greal". Deep dark red colour and a charming smell of lovely dark berries with discrete pepper tones. On the palate it is fruit all the way, packed with soft tannins a big body and solid mouthful. The aftertaste is long velvety, fresh and fruity with a perfect touch of pepper to simply remind you that this is Syrah you are drinking now. Hermitage 2007 "Le Greal", M Sorrel, Medium price 37£, like a velvety Burgundy with pepper.