Beautifully rich ruby red that is practically opaque. Fruit explosion on the nose, thanks to a large bulbous glass, with dark fruit like cherry and berries, plum, fig, sweet spices, cassis and eucalyptus. On the palate, much of the same, plus prune, raisin, leather and smoke. Glad we cellared it for so long - the tannins have softened right out. 2016 is the perfect year to drink this one. It is gorgeous!

This is concentrated example from the southern Rhone. Ripe berry fruit, garrigue, and forest floor leap out of the glass. The nose and palate are both very inviting. With firm tannins, sweet fruit hangs after the finish mixing elements of both savory and sweet quite nicely. Tasted February 2013.