2018 E.Guigal Ermitage Ex-Voto Rouge

The 2018 E. Guigal Ermitage Ex-Voto Rouge is one of the Northern Rhône’s greatest modern wines and a benchmark expression of Hermitage Syrah. Produced only in exceptional vintages, Ex-Voto is sourced from some of Hermitage’s most revered lieux-dits, including Bessards, Greffieux, Murets and L'Hermite, where mature vines rooted in granite-rich soils produce fruit of extraordinary concentration and complexity. Matured for approximately 42 months in 100% new French oak, Ex-Voto represents the pinnacle of Guigal’s craftsmanship, combining immense power with remarkable refinement. The outstanding 2018 vintage has produced a wine of exceptional richness, purity and balance, and is widely regarded as one of the finest Ex-Voto releases in recent decades.

The nose is breathtakingly complex and intensely aromatic, revealing aromas of blackberry, cassis and black cherry layered with violet, smoked bacon and cracked black pepper. As the wine opens, notes of woodsmoke, graphite and olive tapenade emerge, complemented by hints of liquorice, espresso, leather and exotic oriental spices. The aromatic profile is both monumental and remarkably refined, balancing the generosity of the 2018 vintage with the unmistakable granite-driven minerality of Hermitage. Critics have highlighted its extraordinary perfume, purity and depth, describing it as one of the standout wines of the vintage.

On the palate, it is full-bodied with extraordinary concentration, velvety tannins and exceptional balance. Layers of blackberry, cassis and dark plum unfold seamlessly across the palate, supported by notes of dark chocolate, smoked meat, black olive, liquorice and savoury spice. Despite its immense richness, vibrant natural acidity and profound mineral tension keep the wine remarkably fresh and focused. The tannins are seamlessly integrated, creating a luxurious texture that carries through to an exceptionally long, powerful and persistent finish marked by lingering notes of black fruits, graphite, spice and crushed granite. The style is monumental yet effortless, combining immense density with extraordinary finesse and precision. Critics have consistently awarded the wine scores in the upper 90s, praising its balance, purity and extraordinary ageing potential.

Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the world’s greatest expressions of Syrah and a must-have for serious collectors. Compared to the already exceptional Hermitage Rouge, Ex-Voto offers significantly greater concentration, complexity and longevity, sitting comfortably alongside the finest wines of Hermitage such as those from Jean-Louis Chave and Marc Sorrel. The outstanding 2018 vintage delivers remarkable richness and generosity while retaining impeccable structure and freshness. Although it is already captivating with 3–4 hours of decanting, this is ultimately a wine built for the long term. Drink from 2028 onwards or cellar confidently through to 2055–2065 and beyond. Perfect with roast lamb, venison, beef Wellington, slow-braised short ribs, wild game, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.