The 2019 Alter Ego is a huge, dense wine. Ripe, exotic and packed to the core, Alter Ego makes a convincing first impression. Time in the glass brings out floral accents and redder tonalities of fruit. Partial aging in foudres has introduced and element of rigor and tension here that is so alluring in the way it complements the natural richness these wines always show.

The 2019 Alter Ego de Palmer has a classically styled bouquet featuring a mélange of red and black fruit, briar, hints of cedar, and a touch of black tea, all showing lovely delineation. The palate is fresh and vibrant, displaying a touch of sour cherry on the granular-textured opening. There is something very "old school" about this Alter Ego in contrast to the 2018. Very saline toward the finish, with good persistence.

Enveloping aromatics, velvety and welcoming. This has fine spice and is full of momentum and clarity. Supple tannins supporting layers of damson fruits, holding on tight through the mid palate with anise and black pepper then softening into gourmet brioche, espresso and cigar box notes. 45hl/h yield, 45% of overall production. Great to see this wine again, after no Alter Ego was produced in 2018.