Delas Frères was founded in 1835 and merged with Champagne Deutz in 1977. In 1993, both were absorbed by Louis Roederer which now owns this 30ha estate, encompassing vineyards in Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage and St-Joseph. Chante Perdrix is farmed by a partner grower, highlighting the quality fruit available to them. This single- parcel wine, made by Jacques Grange and Claire Darnaud-McKerrow has spent 12 to 14 months in oak barrels. 15,000 bottles are made. Gearoid Devaney MS: Abounding with dark fruits, roses and spicy nuances, this is an intense style that shows fine ripe tannins and a solid middle. Great acidity and a mineral streak carry it onto a long finish. Simon Field MW: Full of liquorice and violet aromas. In the mouth there are elegant tannins and firm acidity. Modern, yes, but also respectful of its provenance and granitic reputation. Matt Walls: Liquorice, tarragon and mineral black fruits. Full bodied, juicy and ripe with balancing acidity. Lots of life and a lifted glint on the finish.

The 2015 Cornas Chante Perdrix is a blend of several parcels, vinified in concrete and aged primarily in oak. It's dark and concentrated, although admittedly not the most muscular Cornas. Black currant and cedar notes combine along with peppery hints of Montreal smoked meat to yield a savory impression. It's all held together by fine-grained, dusty tannins, which leave a lingering soft texture on the long, licorice-tinged finish. Already enjoyable, it should develop well for 10-12 years or more.

Vivid purple. Blueberry, cherry pit and smoky Indian spices on the perfumed nose, complicated by notes of olive paste and game. Deep, sappy and expansive, offering sweet, nicely concentrated flavors of black and blue fruit liqueur and candied licorice. Gains energy as it opens up, finishing with lingering notes of candied dark berries and supple, slow-building tannins.