various contributors. 1) Grande Viallière (1980s Syrah, used 600-litre cask) **** dark robe. The nose is assured, gives iodine and blue fruit, cassis that is ripe. The depth on the nose is repeated on the palate, which holds good, firm richness and ripe tannins right in place. The close is thorough, and it extends well. 23 years. 2) Coteau de Tupin (2002-05 Syrah, very abrupt slope, used 600-litre cask) ****(*) dark red robe. The nose offers precise, lightly floral airs, red fruits, raspberry – it is curved but firm. The palate is also firm and pure, bears blackberry fruit with a compact nature, very good for young vines. This is stylish, true, precise, holds lightly sweet gras richness, fine tannins. It is close-knit and consistent. “It is balanced, round,” René Rostaing. 24 years. 3) Tupin, Leyat (ex Marius Gentaz vineyard), Viallière, used 600-litre cask) ***** dark robe. Tight, smoky black fruits, gunflint, bluebbery, naked rock airs mingle on the nose. The palate links very closely to the nose. There is good release of firm content, a bit at a time. The tannins are fine, crunchy. The structure is handsome, has vigour deep within. It resembles the shape of concave grapes in on themselves, thick skins, tight release of juice. 27 years. this will be an intricate, mineral-inflected wine with initially tight features, and only gradual opening out of its compressed juice. OVERALL ****(*)

Dark purple. Nervy and savoury with lots of high-toned tension. Lovely round, relaxed palate. Great balance and almost approachable. Bone-dry, fermented treacle toffee. 16.5 points