Gérard Bertrand : Clos d'Ora 2019

A powerful, alluring red, brooding with smoke and layers of rich blackberry paste and cassis. Reveals charred garrigue, underbrush and graphite notes that alternate with sweet oak spices on the creamy palate, while silky tannins guide the finish. Decadent yet balanced, with a refreshing menthol and anise kick at the end. Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache. Better than previously reviewed. Drink now through 2030. 822 cases made, 100 cases imported.

Restrained nose showing discreet aromas of blackberries, blueberries and roasted thyme with hints of bark, truffles and savory cocoa powder and tobacco. Broad and full-bodied with plenty of fine-grained, closely knit tannins giving it a tight, chewy texture. Needs a few years to let the tannins soften. Drink from 2024.