On Sep 12, 9:36*am, "Bill S." > wrote:

> 1983 Chave Hermitage Blanc – this was a rare treat. Showing some
> colour, but not as much as one might expect at this age (we were at
> least a decade out on vintage) with a ripe, rich sweet nose that
> seemed to include many different fruit elements including pear, peach
> and a hint of almond, excellent balance and a long dry finish. *One of
> the best mature white Hermitages I can recall drinking.


At one time white Hermitage from the best estates in the best years
often would age well for up to a few decades. This ability to long
age well seems to be more rare for many modern Hermitage Blancs. The
only fairly old Hermitage Blancs I have left are single bottles of
Chave Blanc 1979 and Guigal Blanc 1981. Your post reminds me that I
need to consume these in the not too distant future.