A bit of a hidden gem, this 2011 has been an absolute knockout to drink over the last few years and it continues to show its brilliance. An almost Pinot-like elegance mingling succulent red and cool black fruit, together with green and black olive and both white and black peppercorns. It is hugely enticing and complex on the nose. The palate is gentle, with tannins succulent and melted into the wine. Rising notes of game, bacon fat and savoury, dried fruit come in waves, building to a flourish on the finish. It continues to improve with air, suggesting even better things to come. Like 1991, 2011 in the northern Rhône delivers so many outstanding wines that are often forgotten after 2009 and 2010 (see 1989 and 1990), and due to the relative indifference towards wines in this vintage from elsewhere in France. (TP) - JR
JR19September 2022