J.L. Chave Sélection Silène Crozes-Hermitage 2019

Leading off the reds, the 2023 Crozes-Hermitage Silene reveals a terrific bouquet of red and black fruits, gamy herbs, violets, and pepper. Medium-bodied, juicy, and nicely textured on the palate, it has solid minerality and a darker, earthy, granitic character that almost reminds me of a Saint Joseph. This rock-solid effort will drink nicely for 7-8 years. Drink 2025-2033. (jebdunnuck.com,May 9, 2025)