Since the wine was finally released with a name and label, I've taken the opportunity to update readers on Delas's 2015 Hermitage Ligne de Crete Les Grandes Vignes. Unfortunately, it's in a bit of a quiescent phase on the nose, but determined swimming coaxes out hints of crushed stone, pencil shavings, machine oil and blueberries. In the mouth, it's considerably more dramatic, with mouthfilling richness balanced by fine-grained tannins and a sense of stone-shackled restraint. Possessing tremendous power and length, it should age well for at least two decades.
BOW (8.75)
The grapes used to make "Ligne de Crête" are grown in the highest-lying vines that Delas Frères owns and cares for on its own on the Hermitage hillside in the "Les Grandes Vignes" lieu-dit.
Soils :
Rock base of primary geological origins. This is where the layer of soil is at its thinnest and where the Syrah varietal is able to delve the furthest into the AOC's deep substrata.
Climate :
This parcel's altitude and moderately windy climate bring an element of coolness to the vines during hot summers.
Surface area under production : 2ha31
Grape varieties : 100% Syrah
