Crozes-Hermitage Syrah

Haven’t had this since about a year ago and it’s only improved a bit since that remarkable showing. Nose has the inky amalgam of mineral, beef jerky, deep spice, and even a low-toned pleasant vegetal note. Also too deep, oozing red berries. Rich in the mouth, yet a little lighter on its feet than you’d think, with minerality and pretty good acids propelling it along. So good.

Really nice and a great value. Got that classic earthy, barky thing I like in Crozes — a little sluttier with the type of earthiness than, say, Saint-Joseph — along with ultra pure essence of blackberry, a very lifted almost-but-not-quite eucalyptus note. Round-textured and fairly concentrated for a basic Crozes, with lots of savory flavors and a long finish. There’s a lifted quality to the palate that is very attractive. Drinks well above its weight.