2020 Gilles Robin Le Papillon

CROZES HERMITAGE

92

Great value syrah from one of the stars of the appellation, who immediately reduced yields and moved to natural fertilizers when he took over in 1996. This is very forward and fruity in style, with an enticing balance of generosity with freshness and fine tannins.

12.5% alc. RRP 45, drink by 2026

2017 Alain Graillot La Guiraude

CROZES HERMITAGE

94

Crozes legend Alain Graillot only produce this in good enough vintages and its character is testament to the wine’s time in his best barrels. Dark and serious, with black and blue luscious fruits, a lift of Ceylon tea and a well pitched creaminess to the fruit despite the gutsy tannins giving it the framework to taste best when near the end of its drinking window.

13% alc. RRP 110, drink by 2030

2019 Jean Baptise Rouge

CROZES HERMITAGE

93

Coming from an exciting rising star who has travelled extensively, Jean Baptiste has been eager to seek out parcels of high altitude vines that show tension, balance and elegance. Deep, dark and spicy, with ample fruit and a long, salty finish, all of which makes for truly fantastic drinking right now.

13.5% alc. RRP 82, drink by 2030

2013 Yves Cuilleron Terres Sombres

CÔTE RÔTIE

92

Cuilleron typically receives more attention for his whites than reds, but this is a neat demonstration of his red wine skills. A medium-bodied style (by

Côte Rôtie standards) and with a significant brisk manner, the freshness of this syrah only enhances the perception of that blackberry fruit.

13% alc. RRP 160, drink by 2025