Sorrel destemmed his Hermitage grapes in 1996 because of the abnormally high acid levels. The deep ruby/purple-colored 1996 Hermitage Cuvee Classique possesses high acidity, good density, and excellent purity. The wine is lighter than usual, without the weight and intensity of previous vintages, but perhaps the high acidity is keeping everything tightly-knit. It is a mid-weight, very good Hermitage that will need 5-6 years of cellaring, and keep for 12-15. Importers: World Shippers and Importers, Philadelphia, PA; tel. (215) 732-2018, a Christopher Cannan Selection, Europvin USA, Watertown, MA; tel. (617) 924-7620 and New Castle Imports, Myrtle Beach, SC; tel. (803) 497-8625