2021 Emmanuel Darnaud Crozes Trois Chenes

1) (Les Pautus at Pont de l’Isere, 1990s Syrah, 3 year 300-litre cask) *** steady red robe; plum jam, raspberry in a rather alert nose, bacon fat and smoke also. The palate gives free run red cherry, crisp oak attached, the not yet in surfeit – it certainly doesn’t need much oak this year. The length is fair. 8-9 years 2) (route de Romans, used 228-litre cask, harvested before the rain) ***(*) clear, attractive red; red cherry with lift on the nose, a hint of vegetal, has sleek tones. The palate holds together, holds firm content, is a bit dour will provide a good couch for the wine. It’s more serious than the previous, has tannin and structure. 10-11 years 3) (Chenes Verts, a little Saviaux, 5-year 228-litre oak cask) ***(*) shiny, quite full red; blackberry, elderberry, raspberry, fruit with purity on the nose, and a crackle of vegetal. The palate holds good resources, iron tones, is nicely naked and good. Its ferrous nature appeals, and the aftertaste is very clear, a success. 25% whole bunch. 11 years 2030-32 3.5 stars