2015 Delas, Hermitage, Les Bessards

Vinous 93-95

Lurid ruby. Complex, expansive aromas of blackberry liqueur, incense, smoky minerals and Moroccan spices. An array of fresh black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors show impressive energy and focus. Picks up allspice and star anise nuances with air, along with a suggestion of candied flowers that carries through the extremely long, sweet finish; smooth tannins make a late appearance. [Josh Raynolds, 04/01/2017]

Robert Parker 99+

“With approximately 500 cases produced, the 2015 Hermitage les Bessards is probably among the most available of the vintage’s top wines. Jump on it if your means allow, as I suspect this wine will be a candidate for perfection once it sheds some tannin. It’s perfumed on the nose, concentrated on the palate and amazingly long yet also elegant from start to finish. And amid the power, oak and massive cassis and blackberry fruit, it also manages to include hints of crushed stone evocative of its granitic terroir. It’s breathtaking stuff, virtually guaranteed to bring a smile to any wine lover’s face.” [Joe Czerwinski, 29/12/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2045