The biggest production cuvee, the 2005 Ermitage Le Pavillon (1,067 cases in this vintage) has a dense purple color, the classic acacia flower, graphite-based, smoky creme de cassis nose with a tremendous intensity and a full-bodied power and richness that is awesome. These are monumental wines, and when you think that this wine, much like most of its siblings, is made from yields of 12-18 hectoliters per hectare, the explanation for its concentration and extraordinary expression of terroir is obvious.

A deep garnet/ruby hue. The nose here is more broody than Meal with blackberry, raspberry and garrigue scents. Just a little reductive. The palate is still a little disjointed, quite tannic and masculine, more aggressive than the other Ermitages. Broody and sullen, foursquare on the finish. Keep at bay for at least a decade by it has masses of potential. Tasted October 2006. Drinking 2015-2035