One of the pleasant surprises in the Delas range, the 2023 Crozes-Hermitage Le Clos is crafted from the lieu-dit Saint-Georges, on the final terraces before the Rhône, encompassing some six hectares enclosed by walls. It opens with a slightly reductive bouquet that gives way to aromas of cassis, nectarine and blackberry. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and deep, it offers excellent structure and substance, built around a long, sustained mid-palate framed by finely chiseled, elegant tannins. This is a real success.

Vibrant aromas of orange zest, white peach, grapefruit pith, and honeysuckle saunter across the nose. The palate is pillowy soft in texture, with a twist of lemon that lifts the finish. This wine is ready to be enjoyed now.

Not yet bottled, the 2023 Hermitage Domaine Des Tourettes offers brilliant aromatics of cassis, graphite, violets, smoked herbs, and a kiss of blood orange on the nose. It's medium to full-bodied and has a concentrated, layered, pure mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. It picks up a beautiful floral character with air and shines for its beautiful overall balance, finesse, and elegance.

Not yet bottled, the 2023 Hermitage Les Bessards offers up pure cassis, liquid violets, white pepper, and crushed stone on the nose, showing that classic Bessards burning embers and violet character. It's medium to full-bodied, has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. It's still tight and compact, and I suspect the cellar will be your friend.

Cassis, liquid violets, classy oak, and a hint of graphite all emerge from the 2023 Saint Joseph Sainte-Epine, and it's medium-bodied, with a pure, layered, seamless mouthfeel and ripe, polished tannins. As with everything from this estate today, it's flawlessly balanced and has sensational purity.