Domaine Georges Vernay : Maison Rouge 2021

This shows good density and power, but freshness, too, with a saline streak of acidity racing through crunchy red currant. White pepper adds the freshness of the vintage and plays off some warm nutmeg and baking spice notes. Give the tightly coiled core time to unwind and integrate with the gentle sweet oak details. Drink now through 2042. 250 cases made, 7 cases imported.

This Côte-Rôtie is pristine, elegant and almost untouched. So much purity and precision. The nose reveals notes of forest berries, wild herbs, cured meat and warm spices. It's medium-bodied with silky tannins and bright acidity. Plenty of wild strawberries and violets on the palate. 100% from old vines planted before 1950, delivering all their dark cherry essence and purity of fruit with a floral flair, bringing elegance and freshness. Minerally and well driven with a focused, long and lively finish. Drink or hold.

From old-vine Syrah grown at the Maison Rouge lieu-dit, it shows great flavor intensity. The oak still frames its edges a little, but the fruit is vibrant and the finish delightfully juicy.