Gabriel Meffre, Saint-Pierre, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône, 2010

Tasting: Crozes-Hermitage 2010

Lean and rather herbaceous nose. Medium-bodied, diffuse, lacks grip and focus, and the tannins are quite dry. Not much pleasure here, and this has little future.

Tasting: Crozes-Hermitage 2010

Savoury nose, with hints of fig, bacon rind and myrtle. Palate is broader than expected, with aromatic integrity evidenced, fine acidity and an impressive length for the medium term at the very least.

Tasting: Crozes-Hermitage 2010

Plum fruit, stewed fruit, raspberry jam airs, slight herb influence. The palate fruit is locked into a gummy clamp, as if its ripeness subdued its freshness. Workmanlike Crozes, stews, foods best. Late acidity isn’t truly within.