Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defense, l'Hermet Variation

Definition

The l’Hermet Variation is a sub-line of the Berlin Defense to the Ruy López opening. It arises after the moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. O-O Nxe4 5. Re1 Nd6 6. Nxe5 Be7 7. Bf1. The position is indexed as ECO code C67. White voluntarily retreats the bishop to f1, restoring the traditional Spanish bishop on the long diagonal and preparing d2–d4, while Black keeps a solid but slightly cramped structure.

Move Order and Key Position

1. e4 e5 — classical open-game start.
2. Nf3 Nc6 — develops and defends the e-pawn.
3. Bb5 — the Ruy López.
3…Nf6 — introduces the Berlin Defense.
4. O-O Nxe4 — the Open Berlin; Black grabs the e-pawn.
5. Re1 Nd6 — the rook counter-attacks the knight; Black must retreat.
6. Nxe5 Be7 — White regains the pawn; Black shields the f-knight.
7. Bf1 — hallmark of the l’Hermet Variation.

After 7.Bf1, a typical continuation is 7…Nxe5 8.Rxe5 O-O 9.d4, when White enjoys a space advantage and the two bishops, while Black’s position is solid and free of weaknesses.

Strategic Themes

White’s plan
- Re-routing the “Spanish bishop” to its original f1–a6 diagonal.
- Central expansion with d2–d4 and sometimes c2–c4.
- Using the e-file pressure (Re1–e3/e4) to harass Black’s minor pieces.
Black’s plan
- Maintain the robust “Berlin Wall” pawn structure (…d7–d6, …c7–c6).
- Exchange minor pieces (…Nxe5, …Nf5) to alleviate space.
- Target the e-file with …Re8 and seek queenside counterplay with …b7–b6, …Bb7.

Historical Background

The variation is named after the little-known French player Alphonse l’Hermet, who tested the idea in Paris coffee-house play at the end of the 19th century. Although overshadowed by other Berlin branches, it periodically resurfaces when top grandmasters wish to avoid the heavily analysed Berlin Endgame (4…Nf6 5.O-O Nxe4 6.d4 Nd6 7.Bxc6 etc.).

Illustrative Game

The following rapid game shows typical piece placement for both sides:

White obtained a slight space edge, yet Black’s position remained completely solid—typical of the l’Hermet.

Practical Usage

Appeals to players who enjoy quiet, manoeuvring positions rather than the sharp Berlin Endgame.
Serves as a surprise weapon because many opponents prepare for the more popular 6.d4 lines.
Frequently chosen in rapid and blitz, where precise endgame knowledge of the main Berlin can be burdensome.

Interesting Facts

Despite its modest pedigree, the l'Hermet was used by Viktor Korchnoi and Alexander Grischuk in high-level events as an occasional sideline.
The retreat 7.Bf1 looks counter-intuitive—moving a piece twice in the opening— yet it mirrors the strategy of the mainline Berlin Endgame, where White’s light-square bishop also returns home before re-emerging.
Engines evaluate the position after 7.Bf1 as almost equal (≈ 0.20), but practical results slightly favour White in club play because the plans are easier to understand.

Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defense, l'Hermet Variation