From old vines on granitic soils, Belle's 2018 Crozes Hermitage Roche Pierre is easily the equal of many Hermitages. Inky in color, marked by scents of crushed stone, licorice, dark berries and black olives, it’s full-bodied on the palate and a marvelous Crozes from a top vintage. Supple but structured, with a sense of coolness and restraint, it reverberates on the finish, delivering masses of fruit but also spicy-savory notes that keep it lively and refreshing. There's 40% new oak in the élevage, but it's scarcely noticeable, so intense is the fruit.