The 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Vieilles Vignes is another ripe, opulent release from Tardieu-Laurent that does everything right. Ripe blackberries, strawberries, black pepper, game, and some smoky, meaty notes all emerge on the nose, and this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a pure, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and no hard edges. It's a gorgeous Northern Rhône Syrah that brings the fruit and texture. It's going to evolve for 10-15 years if well stored. Maturity: 2024-2039. Score - 93. (jebdunnuck.com, Oct. 29, 2024)