Aromas of spiced plums and cocoa-dusted blueberries with hints of walnuts and dry earth. Medium- to full-bodied with layers of fine-grained tannins and a chalky texture. Structured and concentrated with a vivid and crunchy dark fruit palate. Pure and succulent with notes of spices and dried herbs with a lingering finish.

Made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Dalem is deep garnet-purple in color. It opens with cedar and baked plums notes, followed by nuances of underbrush, cast-iron pan, and tilled soil. The full-bodied palate is packed with vibrant black fruits and cedary undertones, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lively backbone, leading to long and minerally finish on this nice wine.

Crisp with real bite, upfront and almost sharp and tart, but stays just right with licks of wet stone, dark blackcurrant and liquorice giving that saline, savoury edge. Deep and layered, with real concentration and an intensity of flavour from start to finish, focused and streamlined so coming across as a bit strict but nice overall frame. Juicy too which is lovely. A great buy. A touch of alcohol still present, giving heat and expansive of potency on the finish, but I like this all the same. Impressive and precise. (GH)