Very deep, dark red. There is close-knit depth on the nose, a little smoke. Red berries are packed in together, comes with a low-key perfume. The palate holds striking, even delicious fruit, has style, and very well embedded tannins. Yes, this is properly delicious. Tasty wine, with delightful fruit. It has scope and flair. 4(5) stars

Dense and brooding – but not as intimidating as young Hermitage can often be – this has a gentleness and minty aromatic lift that is really becoming. Delicious – and doesn’t need decades. 17.5 points