Yves Cuilleron : Labaya 2022

Drinking beautifully now, with great integration of delicate plum, raspberry, mocha, dusty herb and alpine notes. Round and open in feel, with refreshing acidity driving along. Toasted aniseed and smoke waft through the medium-length finish. Drink now through 2030. 56 cases imported.

The 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Labaya opens with spicy, leafy elements, neatly complemented by a touch of black cherry. Medium-bodied at most, the 2022 Labaya outperforms the 2021 I tasted last year, finishing with abundant freshness on the juicy finish. That said, it would need a little more substance and length to merit a higher score.

Blackberries, roasted herbs, loamy earth, chocolate, and pepper all emerge from the 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Labaya. Meaty and nicely concentrated on the palate, with a mouth-filling, foursquare profile, this is a solid house red to enjoy over the coming 5-7 years. Drink 2025-2032.