Dark ruby at the core. Very expressive aromatically with classic notes of white pepper, baking spice, violets and ripe red fruit. This is particularly refreshing on the palate, coming off as more expansive than dense. This wine really shows a more elegant side of Syrah with more baking spice and floral flavors, as well a streak of minerality that’s reminiscent of the granite terroir here. Long finish. This is open for business now and will be delicious with grilled meat over the next 5-10 years.

Dominated by its minerality with moderate tannins the 2010 Crozes-Hermitage Le Clos is a sleeper of the vintage. Last year from barrel this offering revealed high acidity and some reduction but it is now performing on all cylinders. While not significantly superior to the charming 2011 the 2010 is a ripe dense full-bodied Crozes offering sweet notes of black currants black cherries licorice smoke and an enticing minerality running through the flavor profile. This full-bodied red is capable of lasting 12-15+ years. 92+