The 2016 Saint Joseph La Sensonne is brought up all in new barrels, but it's barely noticeable in the wine due to the wealth of fruit and overall balance. Loaded with notions of crème de cassis, spiced blackberries, ground herbs, violets, and pepper, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, terrific intensity, a flamboyant texture, and a great finish. It’s a ripe, sexy wine that needs 2-4 years to shed its baby fat and will keep for a decade or more. It's rocking stuff!

Expressive plum, boysenberry and blackberry confiture aromas and flavors pour forth, underscored by anise, singed alder and tobacco notes. A light graphite edge through the finish adds cut and grip. Very solid. Best from 2017 through 2028.— J.M.

Aged in 100% new oak and selected from the estate's oldest vines, the 2016 Saint Joseph la Sensonne reveals cedar and vanilla shadings on the nose, plus attractive raspberry and cherry fruit. It's full-bodied and concentrated, with a rich, creamy mouthfeel followed by a long, slightly astringent (from wood tannins) finish. Give it a year or so to shake off the rough edges and drink it over the next decade or so. - Joe Czerwinski