95-97. Barrel Sample. This is a firmly structured wine, its tannins dominating the potential of the ripe fruit. It will take many years to develop into the impressive wine that it is sure to become.

Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 La Gaffeliere opens with compelling wild blueberries, freshly crushed plums and kirsch scents plus hints of garrigue, underbrush, rose hip tea and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is wonderfully elegant with a soft, velvety texture and seamless freshness carrying the multilayered fruit to a long finish.

This has a suave, cashmere feel, with waves of blackberry and plum reduction rolling through, infused liberally with dark tobacco and black licorice notes. A black tea accent smolders on the finish, complemented by a faint floral echo. This should age into a charmer. Best from 2022 through 2037.

Vivid and fruity with hints of blackberry and mineral undertones. Medium to full body and a tight palate. Savory and delicious already.