96pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

While in some years the quality of the lieu-dit Saint Joseph bottling can come close to this level, the 2020 Saint-Joseph Vignes de l'Hospice is a clear step up, offering substantially more depth and concentration. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, with lingering notes of crushed stone, pencil shavings, cherries and blueberries.
Barrel Sample: 94-96.

95pts James Suckling

Amazing nose of candied orange, ripe blackberry and smoke. Great balance of richness, precisely contoured fine tannins and strident minerality. Very long complex finish with so much smoky mystery. From a three-hectare single-vineyard that faces the hill of Hermitage from the opposite bank of the Rhone. Matured for 30 months in 100% small new oak casks.

94pts Wine Spectator

A polished, richly styled red, with a warm robe of toasty oak and mesquite smoke wrapped around black cherry compote, spiced fig and mocha flavors. Shows singed incense and green herbs, which add refreshing detail through the dense, chewy palate. Reveals refined tannins, which are firm yet nicely meshed into the lavish, well-integrated texture. Dense and meaty.

Winemaker Notes

A deep red in color, the nose is presented with complex aromas that are dominated by black fruit and delicate oak sensations. Overall, the nose is pure and intense. The palate transitions with a powerful attack of round and elegant tannins. Originating from a geological formation similar to the famous Bessards slopes in Hermitage, this Saint-Joseph has all the finesse of the appellation and the strength of its neighbor across the river.