Dark magenta. Intense dark fruit and floral scents, along with hints of olive paste, smoked meat and exotic spices. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering bitter cherry and cassis flavors that are underscored by a vein of juicy acidity. Rich and broad but energetic as well, showing bright clarity and a lingering floral nuance on the long, youthfully tannic finish. -- Josh Raynolds

Quite some wet-earth character and a touch of graphite on the nose (from slight reduction), but also brimming with ripe blackberry fruit. The healthy tannins give this some drive and keep the finish very straight. From syrah vines growing between the Cornas and St.-Peray appellations. Drink or hold.

The 2020 Côtes Du Rhône is darker and richer, with more structure as well as medium to full-bodied richness, notes of pepper, violets, and game, ripe, present tannins, and a great finish. It unquestionably has classic Clape character and will keep for at least 7-8 years. Unfortunately, the price from this has skyrocketed over the coming decade, but it’s a terrific wine.