The 2015 Crozes Hermitage le Clos is the high-end Crozes bottling from Delas Frères, aged 14-16 months in French oak. Give it some time in the glass to open up if you try one soon, as it's tight and closed at first, gradually developing floral notes and showing more black cherry and blackberry fruit. In the mouth, it's velvety and concentrated, gradually fading on the finish into hints of licorice and black pepper. This medium to full-bodied 100% Syrah drinks well now (with air) but should evolve well for at least another decade.

"Deep ruby. Powerful black raspberry and cherry liqueur aromas pick up suave floral, incense and spicecake nuances with air, along with a touch of smoky minerality. Rich, chewy and broad on the palate, offering concentrated blackberry, cassis and spicecake flavors that are energized by a core of juicy acidity. Finishes smooth, sweet and very long, with velvety tannins and a strong final kick of peppery spices." - Josh Raynolds