2019 Delas Frères Crozes-Hermitage Domaine Les Grands Chemins

Ripe red and black fruits, spice, leather, herbes de Provence, and some meaty nuances all emerge from the 2019 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine Des Grands Chemins, a gorgeous Crozes that shines on all accounts. Medium to full-bodied and balanced, it has fine tannins, a notable sense of purity and freshness, and a great finish. It's the finest vintage for this cuvée I've tasted, and it will evolve for 10-15 years if well stored. While this comes from the Les Chassis region, it almost has a granite-like feel in its tannins and acidity. It's impressive!

At first there is full raw-meat character with hints of graphite and spice, but as it aerates the blackberry fruit slowly expands and deepens. Full, ripe and concentrated with an impressive tannin structure. Long, chocolatey finish that is precisely delineated and has good freshness. Drink or hold.

With yields cut 40% by hail, the 2019 Crozes Hermitage Domaine des Grands Chemins is a concentrated, rich and velvety effort that should prove reasonably long-lived. Purple raspberries, black olives and blackberries mingle easily on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied and finishes with terrific length. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.