Lourens Howard John Red Blend 2021

Undergoing 80% whole cluster ferment and 10 months in used French oak, the 2021 Howard John Red Blend has a well-defined, perfumed bouquet with red berry fruit, Earl Grey, touches of wild fennel and cracked black pepper. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy, caressing opening, pure red cherries and crushed strawberry with quite a sweet, ample finish. This is a lovely Rhône blend – very seductive. Drinking window: 2023-2035. Score – 93. (Neal Martin, vinous.com, Sept. 29, 2022)