Jean-Michel Gérin : La Viallière 2022

A chewy, dense version, with a savory profile to the notes of black cherry paste, olive tapenade and dried herbs. Flattering smoked cedar polish will integrate with time in bottle. Still a bit tightly wound, this has a long life ahead. Creamy and salty, with a hint of old-school earthiness, this delivers character and elegance, too. Robust and long. Best from 2026 through 2040. 584 cases made, 24 cases imported.

The 2022 Côte-Rôtie La Viallière opens with pronounced notes of leather, black cherry, cedar and graphite. Finishing a little rustic and astringent, this concentrated 2022 will never be a charmer.