E. Guigal Hermitage 2019

Glass-staining ruby. Powerful, mineral- and smoke-accented black and blue fruit, potpourri, olive and vanilla aromas acquire a spicy nuance as the wine opens up. Offers densely packed cherry-cola, cassis and blueberry flavors that show excellent clarity and a smoky top note. Finishes impressively long, youthfully chewy and spicy, with building tannins and a suave, lingering candied violet note. 50% new oak. Drinking window: 2027-2038. Score – 95. (Josh Raynolds, vinous.com, Dec. 2022)