2019 Marc Sorrel Hermitage Le Greal

Deep, glistening magenta. Hugely expressive cherry, blackberry, espresso and floral aromas, along with suggestions of smoked meat, licorice and star anise. Deeply concentrated as well as energetic on the palate, offering intense black and blue fruit preserve, fruitcake, exotic spice and floral pastille flavors that stretch out and take on a smoky mineral aspect as the wine opens up. Finishes extremely long and juicy, showing sharp delineation, steadily building tannins and strong mineral thrust on the floral-accented finish. 97 points

dark, shiny, attractive robe; there’s an issue of inner power, strength on the bouquet, black cherry, black olives, licorice. It’s reserved for now. The palate gives a silken ride, a large ball of gras coasting along, is sumptuous and persistent. Black berry fruit in coulis-liqueur form is central to it. There are marked Southern tones here. As it stands, it’s weighty, not enlightened, is a savoury wine that will stand the test of time, is on sipping status currently. 4 stars