The 2018 Hermitage Le Greal is a blend from Greffieux and Le Méal, hence the name. That aside, it's simply a stupendous wine, bursting with licorice, violets and cassis on the nose and backed by ample concentration and a rich, velvety mouthfeel. There's a faint steaminess evident (the fermentation is 100% whole clusters), but it just adds complexity to both the palette of aromas and flavors and the palate (in terms of textural interest). The finish is long, long, long. Yes, I wrote it three times in my notes.

Opaque ruby. Seductively perfumed black and blue fruit liqueur, smoky bacon, candied violet and olive paste aromas show superb delineation; spice and mineral notes build in the glass. Displays palate-coating, mineral-accented cassis, cherry-cola, fruitcake and violet pastille flavors that deepen and become firmer as the wine gains air. A wonderfully long, smoky features developing tannins and resonating floral, mineral and exotic spice qualities. Ninety percent of the fruit here comes from Le Méal, the rest from Les Gréffieux.

The 2018 Hermitage Le Greal doesn't match the 2019 or 2020, but it's nevertheless a gorgeous Hermitage. Gamey red, blue, and black fruits, violets, graphite, and bouquet garni notes define this wild, slightly feral, incredibly singular Hermitage that's full-bodied, has ripe tannins, and a great finish. Both the 2019 and 2020 show another level of purity and precision, but this is still a compelling effort that will evolve for 20+ years if well stored.

100% Syrah. Cask sample. Much more baked than their domaine Hermitage, and the fruit is less immediately charming as a result. Tough tannins, high acid, medicinal aftertaste. Plenty of extraction and power, which needs time, and lots of it. (RH)