2015 M. Sorrel, Hermitage

Opaque ruby. Ripe black currant and cherry pit aromas are complicated by suggestions of smoky Indian spices, olive paste, licorice and succulent flowers. Concentrated black and blue fruit flavors become livelier and spicier with air, and a bright mineral element adds lift and cut. Chewy tannins add firm grip to a very long, floral-laced finish that echoes the smoke and licorice notes.

100% Syrah from Les Plantiers, Les Bessards and Les Greffieux vineyards - Brilliant red and purple that are full of life and vigour. The nose is well geared up, coated, abundant, has airs of blackberry, brambly fruit, an elegant theme within its coulis style depth. The palate has a blackberry, crisp, tingling debut, develops sustained more red, mulberry fruit and close-fit tannins, with a fine grain content. There is a good, loose charge of fruit, toothsome and dentelle it is. It ends on the up, is well structured. There’s a lot here, and the balance is very good. Drinking suggestion from 2020. Tasted in April 2016.