M. Chapoutier : Monier de la Sizeranne 2022

Crafted from different lieux-dits on the Hermitage hill (the lower part of Les Greffieux, Le Méal and Les Bessards), the 2022 Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne reveals aromas of lilac, iris, coniferous forest, licorice and carnal/animal-like notes mingled with inky tones. Medium to full-bodied, structured and concentrated, it's firm and dense with an abundant tannic frame that segues into a long, flinty yet carnal finish.

The 2022 Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne fails to live up to the positive first impression I had when tasting an unfinished barrel sample last year. Pronounced leather notes suggest the presence of Brettanomyces, accompanied by discreet black fruit tones and a touch of licorice. It ends with marked astringency.

Powerful and broad, with a firming, bitter spine of iron supporting brambly berry and plum notes. Smolders with intensity, offering dark, savory undercurrents of black pepper, charred anise and mineral. Black tea tannins show real grip on the dry, gutsy finish. Give this some time to mellow out. Best from 2027 through 2040. 130 cases imported.