Hermitage Wine Region

Mystique and rich in flavors, Hermitage wines are as unique as their names. Before the name “Hermitage” was granted legal protection, winemakers did not stop short of using the word frivolously around the world as it meant high quality. Pleasant on both your nose and your palate, there is seldom anything fellow wine connoisseurs would not prefer about a glass of Hermitage. Follow our guide to  Hermitage to explore the Burgundy wine region and learn more.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Hermitage!

Where is Hermitage?

Hermitage is on the east bank of the Rhone while the others are on the west. The hill here, or the hill of Hermitage as it is popularly known, is a granitic outcrop, an extension of the Massif Central. Known as the home of Syrah grapes, the hill is also a spiritual space for Syrah. Hermitage is on par from the Côte Rôtie (30 miles/45km to the north), and Châteauneuf-du-Pape (70 miles/110km to the south).

Peeking Into History of Hermitage

The history of Hermitage can seem ambiguous. It is thought that viticulture in the region goes back as far as Roman times. However, there are no good records before the 17th century to prove so. Hermitage was seen as an official wine in the French courts of King Louis XIII and his successor Louis XIV, the "Sun King". The wine was also used as a gift for visiting dignitaries and foreign royalty. It was no less respected across the English Channel, as confirmed by Thomas Shadwell's comedy of 1680, 'The Woman-Captain'.Hermitage was a significant region in the 19th century because wines from here were used to fortify Bordeaux. The modern appellation of Hermitage came in form in 1937.

Terroirs of Hermitage

Hermitage, similar to other appellations of Northern Rhone, has granite in its soil. The topsoil on the slopes of the region is relatively thin compared to that of the valley floor. Nevertheless, one can find a wide variety of soil types in Hermitage – ranging from sandy gravel in the west, to rockier areas higher up and limestone in the center. Perfect for Syrah grapes to blossom in, intense Rhône sunshine warms the hillside during the day, the granite bedrock stores this heat, encouraging the grapes to ripen more fully than those in less-exposed sites.

What does Wine from Hermitage Taste like?

The red Hermitage wines made from Syrah are the more popular ones. From the Northern part of France, Hermitage will bring your flavors of black fruits, spices and earthiness. You might also denote a hint of smokiness and mushrooms in there. 

The white Hermitage, although less popular than its sibling, does not fall far behind when it comes to flavors. Giving your aromas of honeysuckle, tropical fruits, and earthy minerals, the white Hermitage made of Marsanne and Roussanne are a delight.

Food to Pair with Hermitage Wine

The Hermitage wine is very much elegant and divine on its own but paired with the following delicacies, the food and wine pairing make this wine exceptional bringing out an explosion of flavors in your mouth.

Cassoulet

Slow cooked meat that is tender and rich in taste to go with a glass of finest red wine. Life could be any better. Pork is the best option for Cassoulet, but feel free to use duck, goose or mutton. The white beans of Cassoulet give the dish an earthy flavor. On the other hand, the high tannin in Hermitage wines cuts down through the fattiness of the meat giving you a moment of heaven indeed.

Beef Stew

Warm and comforting on a cold day or night, do you know what would make a bowl of beef stew better? A glass of red Hermitage that can become its best friend. A pot of onions, carrots, tomatoes, beef broth, anise seeds, pepper and beef is pretty much all you will need. And of course a bottle of red Hermitage. Such simple ingredients, such beautiful flavors, and outcomes!

Moroccan Lamb Barbecue

This North African dish pairs beautifully with wines made of Syrah. The flavor of the lamb goes in excellence with the earthiness and spices of Hermitage wine. The dish includes spices like cumin, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, cilantro and a whole lot of grilled and charred lamb meat that brings out the best of Hermitage.

Beef Short Ribs braised in Red wine and Herbs

Beef infused with wine and spices will bring a party in your mouth that you will hardly forget. The combination of the right flavors, in this case tarragon, rosemary, fennel seed, dried sage, thyme and basil will go well with the complexity of the Hermitage to create a moment of bliss.

French Onion Soup

How can French wine be complete without a classic French dish? Comforting, rich, and steamy with all the right spices like thyme and basil, a glass of red Hermitage can kick up the flavors. The rich onion soup will mirror the earthy characteristics of the Syrah wine and croutons on top will add a nice crunch.

Best Places in Hermitage

The region of Hermitage may be small, but it has wonders to explore. The place is a wine pilgrimage, to begin with.

The Hill of Hermitage and the Chapel of St Christopher

 From this hill, you can take a tour of both the Chapel of St Christopher and the beautiful view that the hill of Hermitage offers you. The hill of Hermitage is mostly filled with vines of Syrah grapes and you will see different types of soil here.

Musée de Tain-l’Hermitage

If you are an art enthusiast, Hermitage has something in store for you. The museum houses a collection of paintings from the Nouvelle École de Paris in the 16th century Hôtel des Corubis. The museum’s paintings date from the 1950s and 1960s. You will not even feel the time go by.

La Passerelle Seguin

A pedestrian bridge that will take you to Tournon-sur-Rhône in the Ardèche department, which has a medieval castle and an old town. Tournon-sur-Rhone is an attractive village with a garden on its hillside from where you can get wonderful views of Tournon sur Rhone and Tain l'Hermitage.

Gourmet Chocolate

Are you a sweet tooth? Valrhona’s chocolate is celebrated by dessert and chocolate lovers for its taste and quality. The illustrious chocolate manufacturer is based in Tain-l’Hermitage and chocolate confections, bars, sauces, and powders are sold in its boutique at 14, Avenue du Président-Roosevelt.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Hermitage