2017 DOMAINE CHRISTELLE BETTON CROZES-HERMITAGE CAPRICE Hermitage is the titan of the Northern Rhone, and nearby Crozes-Hermitage surrounds Hermitage to its Eastern and Southern sides and shares some similarities in terroir. The iconic regions also hold homogeneous grape requirements that, like Hermitage, are based around a core of Syrah. A stunning example of classic Crozes-Hermitage comes from Domaine Christelle Betton, and at $36, this 94 Point Red made a big impression on our tasting panel. Christelle Betton's top and most limited Cuvée Caprice could be the poster child for classic Crozes-Hermitage. The wine has an exquisite perfume of blue violets and smokey minerals, and on the palate, it's deep, rich, and powerful with pressed dark berries, fresh charcuterie, dried flowers, cocoa and hints of pepper. The 2017 checks in at 100% Syrah and arose from the Estate's oldest vines ranging 30-40 years, which produce the fruit of captivating and hedonistic qualities. At $36, you might go all-in. "Meaty, perfumed, silky, grainy - really lovely Crozes which combines dark, brooding, savoury notes with excellent structural balance. It's light enough to drink freely, yet complex enough to be really engaging. Top drop! (RH)" 17/20