(100% syrah, from vines in the Cote Blonde that are reportedly almost 65 years old), Opaque ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet presents candied dark berries and cherry-cola, with notes of Indian spices, anise and smoked meat building with air. Fleshy but focused on the palate, with intense black and blue fruit flavors and a touch of candied violet. Tangy minerals add lift and cut to a strikingly long, smoky and gently tannic finish. -- Josh Raynolds