Tardieu Laurent : Hermitage 2019

Shows gorgeous purity, with a long cascade of warmed cassis, plum puree and cherry reduction flavors that seemingly glides through, though it's riveted with an underlying racy iron and sanguine-accented structure. Features perfumed hints of red tea and singed alder that chime on the finish, adding even more range. A beauty. Best from 2023 through 2038. 450 cases made, 5 cases imported.

This richly concentrated Syrah juxtaposes streaks of blackberry and boyenberry nectar against reverberating tangs of salt, granite, licorice and tea leaf. Full bodied yet zesty, it's svelte compared to many more mammoth vintage peers in Hermitage. Its plummy, perfumed blackfruit appeals young but there's much to come still. At peak 2027–2040.

Very weighty in the mouth, really shot through with ripe, velvety tannins. Very introverted for now. Harmonious, seamless, fresh and together. The alcohol is a little raised, but there's lots to enjoy here, it's a serious wine. Not overextracted or overripe in flavour. I suspect the alcohol will show in old age, but keep it until 10 years from vintage if you can.

Perfumed notes of mulberries, blueberries, violets, sweet-tobacco and some smoke. It’s full-bodied with firm tannins. Inky and smoky with a fleshy texture on the palate. Flavorful, tight and herbal finish with good length. Try in 2023.

A fine expression; the Syrah reveals itself with great precision.