2020 La Vigne des Pères (Aymeric Paillard) St. Joseph Petit Pere (750ml)

17++/20 points: "After converting Delas's Hermitage vineyard to organic farming, Aymeric managed to acquire a prime four-hectare vineyard just to the north of Tournon. He has restored and brought the hair-raisingly steep vineyards back to life, working by hand and horse. Biodynamic but not certified. Semi-carbonic maceration. A wide range of ageing vessels. Deep crimson. Gorgeously dark-fruited, peppery aroma. More dark than fruity. With that lovely smoked-meat quality of top northern Rhône Syrah. This is packed with flavour: smoky, savoury, meaty dark fruit. Powerful and fresh. Needs time or T-bone. (JH) (Drink between 2024-2034)” - Julia Harding, MW, JANCISROBINSON.COM