1996 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers
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Tasting notes
A beautiful showing from what's certainly one of the top examples of this appellation, the 1996 Crozes Hermitage les Varonniers is 100% Syrah that comes from a cool, pure granite terroir located just behind Hermitage Hill. Its deep ruby color is followed by terrific Granite-induced aromas of damp earth, crushed rocks, smoke and hints of meatiness. Medium to full-bodied, rich, nicely concentrated and balanced, it’s fully mature, yet should easily keep for another decade. This has to easily be one of the most impressive, age-worthy Crozes Hermitage made today.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Good dark red. Liqueur-like kirsch and licorice aromas. Thick and sweet but shapely and structured. The blackberry flavor is notably ripe for the year. Firm on the finish, with fine tannins and lovely persistence of dark berry flavor. May yet merit a 90-point score.