“Bright violet. A complex bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, incense, smoky minerals and black pepper. Juicy, appealingly sweet and focused on the palate, offering cherry compote, boysenberry and floral pastille flavors that turn deeper and spicier on the back half. Closes juicy and very long; fine-grained tannins add gentle grip and focus.”

“The 2014 Crozes Hermitage comes all from hillside vineyards and shows plenty of potential in what was a difficult year for the appellation. Blackberries, pepper and violet notes all emerge from this medium-bodied, elegant effort, and it has more in common with a high quality St. Joseph than a Crozes Hermitage. Already upfront and perfumed, it should drink nicely right out of the gate.”