Crozes-Hermitage Syrah

Overall quite savoury and spicy, a little short on the fruit but good balance between the vibrant acidity and quite supple tannins. Not bad at all, if a little lacking in varietal / appellation typicity. Good length. For early drinking.

Smells of crushed violets and velvet.
A very, very, soft wine, smooth, maybe a little too smooth for want I expect the region to give. Carbonic fruit, raspberry, strawberry, taffy. Medium bodied, and leaning a bit towards hotel wine.. Hoping it opens better.

Elegant, understated Crozes

First time with this vintage; the color is dark and viscosity low; nose is decidedly spicy and meaty and slighly oaked; full-bodied, soft tannins and with dark cheeries, herbs and a saline touch on the palate. Well made but lacks the power of -15.

Classic and elegant profile, fairly approachable and drinking well now with medium tannins, savory backbone, spice character and fleshy blue fruit complexion. A bit smoky with floral, black olive and subtle briny notes on the finish. Tremendous value.

Basic Yann Chave still beats many at a greater price!

Burger wine

Blueberry and cream. Medium-light elegant style of Syrah that you can only really find in the Northern Rhone. $30 retail.

Sweet compost, tar smoke, green peppercorn, preserved lard, beef broth. Interesting 'green/wild herbs' on the finish. Fine tannins and persistent finish.

I really love Rhone wines and this is great. Good fruit and herbs. Great with meat....plain meat.