Tardieu Laurent : Hermitage 2022

Sleek in feel, this alluring red features cherry, plum and licorice flecked with licorice snap, cola and herbs. Firms up on the palate, with fine-grained tannins providing an upright frame and chalky mineral notes adding depth. Singed sage and alder smoke grace the well-cut finish. Drink now through 2040. 400 cases made, 50 cases imported.

A muscular, structured and layered Hermitage, proposing aromas of blackberries, dark plums, roasted meat, undergrowth, dried herbs and baking spices. It’s medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Well rounded with a precise and seductive texture. Vivid, with spice and dried-herb character combining nicely with the silky stream of fleshy berries. Lively and flavorful with a long, vibrant finish. Try after 2026.

The classic 2022 Hermitage from this family is outstanding, and it has the vintage's ripe, opulent style. Deep purple-hued with a ripe nose of red plums, blackberries, flowery incense, candied violets, and leather, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a lifted, open profile, good overall balance, soft tannins, and outstanding length. I wouldn't push the envelope on the aging curve, but this pretty, elegant, perfumed Hermitage should round into form nicely with 2-3 years of bottle age and drink well over the following decade. Drink 2025-2035.