1990 Hermitage Le Greal

More rounded and voluptuous than the '91, the youthful, opaque ruby-colored 1990 Hermitage le Greal is another blockbuster effort from Sorrel that offers fabulous aromatics (Asian spices, cassis, pepper), full-bodied richness and a serious, blockbuster finish that pumps out tons of fruit. While drinking beautifully, there's not even a hint of bricking or lightening at the edge, it has terrific purity of fruit and there's still present, sweet tannin on the finish. An incredible effort, I'd happily drink bottles anytime over the coming 10-15 years.

Bit dry and dusty – dried out now – but perhaps because of storage conditions? (JR)

Rustic but convincing nose. Lively crimson. Scented nose. Very round and scented. Has the same sort of completeness as the 2004 Chave. But still with some dry tannins on the finish. Archetypal Hermitage. Very lively. Great polish and scent. Dense. Just starting to come round. But obviously set for the long term. Very fine. (JR)