Deeper and richer, with knockout notes of black raspberry, creme de cassis, spice-box, roasted meats and hints of vanilla bean (this cuvee sees roughly 25% new oak), the 2011 Gigondas Valbelle is full-bodied, seriously concentrated and has a core of sweet fruit that carries through the finish. Still with some oak to integrate, as well as plenty of tannin, this beauty can be enjoyed anytime over the coming decade. - Jeb Dunnuck

A solid, fleshy and amply toasty style, with coffee and ganache notes out front, backed by a solid core of currant paste and plum cake flavors. A strong charcoal accent takes over on the finish, stitched up by fine acidity. Should settle in with moderate cellaring. Best from 2015 through 2026. – JM