2020 Hermitage Cuvee Emilie

Bright purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of dark berry preserves, bacon fat, olive paste, espresso and potpourri are energized by a smoky mineral flourish. Sweet and expansive in the mouth, offering lush blackberry, cherry-vanilla, mocha and licorice flavors along with suggestions of candied violet and black pepper. The floral and mineral notes resonate emphatically on a strikingly persistent finish that's framed by youthful, firming tannins. 100% new oak.

I was unimpressed by the blended sample of the 2020 Hermitage Cuvee Emilie I tasted blind, which came across as rather sturdily built and savory in tone, showcasing earthy, plummy notes on a medium-bodied palate, backed by firm tannins (87 - 89). Yet two barrels tasted at the domaine yielded a very different impression. From Rocoules (about 20% of the blend), a floral, red-fruited expression of Hermitage, full-bodied but supple and charming (93 - 95). From Les Grandes Vignes (80% of the blend), more cassis and blackberries, accented by toast and cedar, full-bodied, rich and structured (94 - 96). I've gone with my more optimistic impression, but included a question mark to reflect the possibility that the quality of the final assemblage could vary beyond the score range given.

100% Marsanne.  Citrus notes with a touch of new oak. Palate soft and supple but misses an edge of freshness. A little flat on the finish. An alcohol twist as well. (JL)