2018 St Joseph La Sensonne

A smaller production cuvée brought up in barrel, the 2018 Saint Joseph La Sensonne sports a deep ruby/purple hue as well as beautiful cassis, kirsch, and blackberry fruits mixed with lots of spiced meats, dried flowers, and a touch of chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, yet brilliantly balanced, this stunning Syrah has ripe tannins and an almost La Mouline-like exotic sexiness about it. It has a touch of obvious background oak, so give bottles 2-4 years and it should keep for 15-20 years, if you're so inclined. Bravo.

Saturated ruby. Heady, oak-spiced dark berry, cherry cola and floral pastille scents show outstanding clarity and pick up a smoky mineral nuance with air. Juicy and penetrating on the palate, offering intense bitter cherry, blueberry and mocha flavors that are given spine and lift by a core of juicy acidity. Finishes sweet, broad and extremely long, with an echo of candied violet and smooth, well-knit tannins. 100% new oak.

100% Syrah. Aged in new oak. Cask sample. Tasted blind. Charred beef on the nose, well-integrated oak spice and rich, sweet black fruit on the palate. Smooth and bright with a long savoury finish that emphasises the meaty side of Syrah. Delicious! (RH)