Dense and powerful with firm road tar black licorice blackberry smoke and ripe berry flavors. Full-blown deep and persistent long and layered promising even more in a year or two. Mourvèdre Grenache Carignane Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2012 through 2022. -JL

Composed of 40% Mourvedre 20% Grenache and the rest Carignan Syrah and Petite Sirah the 2009 Ritual Proprietary Red showcases the beauty of these Rhone Ranger varietals. Lots of pepper roasted meat herb and red and black fruit aromas tumble out of the glass of this dark purple-colored wine. Terrific fruit intensity a beautiful texture and a heady finish make for a supple velvety luscious red to drink over the next 5-7 years.