Tardieu Laurent : Saint Joseph "Vieilles Vignes" 2020

A sleek, meaty red, this layers fresh and steeped cherry with singed apple wood, charred bacon fat and cracked peppercorn. Green herbs offset sweet oak spice and the tannins are well-tamed, providing a cashmere frame for the silky, refreshingly savory finish. Drink now through 2030. 750 cases made, 200 cases imported.

The 2020 Saint Joseph Vieilles Vignes has terrific, granite-like minerality along with pure blue fruits, medium to full body, ripe tannins, and complex notes of violets, sappy green herbs, and cracked peppercorns. Its texture and density show the riper style of the vintage, yet its aromatics have an almost cool-climate vibe. It’s another beautiful wine from this terrific estate.

Deep and persistent with notes of dry stone, smoke, and stone fruit; a harmonious, velvety, profound palate. Great length, great pedigree.

Lovely spicy notes on violet and Sichuan pepper; the juice is open, with a hint of bacon-larded Northern Syrah. The palate is pulpy, with fairly concentrated substance well wrapped by its élevage. A seductive wine that would benefit from a touch of graphite freshness, yet it remains well managed overall.

Irresistible juicy aromas of black cassis, bramble jam, fresh rose, violets and a touch of fresh earth fill the glass. The wine exudes freshness and purity throughout. The palate is particularly lovely, showcasing pure cherry and blackberry fruit accented by just the right amount of baking spice. Enjoy immediately or stash a few bottles in the cellar.