Clos Solène is crafting wines of concentration and balance from their Paso Robles estate, planting Rhône varieties on the steep slate slopes. A concentrated Syrah with 2% each of Grenache and Viognier with heady aromatics of dried rose and violet petals, briny black olive and gorgeous red and black berry fruits. The palate is intense, melding savoury fresh dill, thyme and anise with smoky notes of clove, white pepper and fleshy red plum fruit. The well-knit structure supports the concentration. There are notes of soy and smoked sea salt which give the savoury elements of the wine an umami edge. Black cherry flesh, rich espresso notes and dried thyme carry the finish. (CP)

The 2021 Hommage à Nos Pairs Reserve is understated yet remarkably pretty, showing dark raspberry, crushed rocks and hints of lavender. This is a model of purity, with crisp black fruits and mineral tones swirling under an air of sage and spice. It tapers off staining and potent, much more integrated than the last time I tasted it, with crunchy tannins and an air of licorice that lingers on and on. Stunning. The 2021 is primarily Syrah with an addition of 2% Viognier and 2% Grenache, using 20% whole clusters in the fermentation. (EG)