90/100 Summer drought and early September rains took their toll on the number of lots that could be selected by Hecht and Bannier for their 2005 Minervois, and hence the volume of finished wine, but the results are unusually fine-grained and brightly black-fruited for this vintage (so many whose wines are reduced, tough-textured, or generally […]
91/100 – SMART BUY Vibrant, rich and well-balanced, delivering intense red plum, cherry and mineral flavors. There’s plenty of peppery seasoning as well, along with a finish dominated by dark chocolate. This has the stuffing to age. Drink now through 2014.— K.M. – $22
88/100 A supple red, with red plum and licorice flavors that are flanked by smoke, spice and paprika. The finish is filled with notes of kirsch and pepper. Drink now through 2013 –KM
88/100 Bright, peppery red, with plenty of muscle behind the dense mocha, dark plum and blackberry flavors. Hints of leather on the powerful and spicy finish. Needs a good steak to stand up to. Drink now through 2012. –KM
16/20 – coup de coeur du comité de dégustation Ce vin semble posséder un exceptionnel potentiel de garde. A la fois ciselé et vif, il est déjà profondément marqué par le caractère très minéral des Syrah sur schistes. Il s’affirme par sa tension et son énergie. Avec un nez de fruits noirs et d’épices douces, […]
*** + Ce St-Chinian 2005, fascine par sa fraîcheur malgré une matière fruitée dense et riche. Fait en majorité a partir de Syrah, son nez très aromatique laisse s’échapper des arômes de fruits noirs, de fleurs, de réglisse, de toasté et de cacao. En bouche, les tanins sont matures et enrobés, le boisé bien dosé […]
Thick, sweet and intense. Very polished ripe Syrah dominates. No hurry to drink. 13.5 %. £12.95 – Berry Bros & Rudd
* * * * Excellent. $12 – $50 Gregory Hecht and François Bannier’s young négociant operation promises to be an outstanding source for polished, concentrated wines of the Languedoc and Roussillon and great values. David Schildknecht 89/100 Minervois 2004: to drink now – 2010. 91/100 Côtes du Roussillon Villages 2003: to drink now – 2011. […]
