M Chapoutier, Cote-Rotie Neve 2019

"A decidedly smoky style that’s robust with plenty of impact, and very tannic and focused. The oak is noticeable but not excessive, and there's no excess alcohol, just great drive and freshness. Thyme, rosemary and blackberry characters come through with real searing intensity without excess weight. Long and direct like an arrow. So impressive, with great balance and precision. Lieu-dit Neve in Ampuis, a south/southeast-facing mid-slope site. All destemmed, fermented in concrete, aged in 225-litre barrels, around 30% new." - Decanter

"The bouquet of this is like a huge bunch of flowers, although many of the aromas go in the balsamic, leathery and spicy directions. With a little aeration smoke and cigar tobacco notes develop. Deep blackberry and black-cherry fruit on the expansive palate, the substantial core of fine tannins holding this extravagance together beautifully. Long, silky and spicy finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification." - James Suckling