BERNARD FAURIE 2020 HERMITAGE BESSARDS/MEAL

John Livingstone-Learmonth (The Cradle of The Rhône): "(cask, has just finished its malo) handsome dark red; the bouquet carries inner sweetness, is reduced, has an appealing depth of black fruits, coulis-like in style, cassis de Dijon liqueur, will be a prominent feature. This is an artful blend, with a very even contribution between richness, depth and red fruit of Méal with mineral-iron of Les Bessards. There’s very pleasing coolness in the red, raspberry fruit – Méal with restraint this year. It lengthens well, has good shape, style, poise, some flair. The tannins are tasty, well inside it, and the balance is good. From 2026-27. 2049-51 July 2021."