The richly fruited 2018 Syrah reflects the warm season, yet retains a sense of its cool-climate origins in its green herbal notes reminiscent of agave, jalapeño and a small sprinkle of black pepper. It’s round and succulent, offering plentiful concentration on the weighty yet refreshing mid-palate. The supple core and silken tannins create a sense of ease from start to finish. The lengthy conclusion is mouthwatering, providing a line that sews up this ripe style. French-oak-derived clove spices join the red fruit and spiced notes. A very gentle and calm expression. 94 points

Transparent garnet. Very savoury, dry Syrah on the nose with lightly peppery fruit on the palate. Very beautiful palate composition with no excesses at all. Beautiful hand-tooled leather expression with light sweetness on palate entry demonstrating sufficient ripeness and then a bone-dry, incredibly persistent finish. Any Côte Rôtie producer would be proud of this. Very precise and understated – but by no means wimpy! 17.5 points