The classic 2016 Vacqueyras Cuvée Tradition is also a winner. Smoked black fruits, underbrush, charcoal, and pepper notes all flow to a ripe, concentrated, opulent Vacqueyras that has good acidity and tons of fruit. It's well worth a case purchase.

La Garrigue's 2016 Vacqueyras is a traditional blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% each Cinsault and Mourvèdre. There's a slight mocha and roasted-fruit element to it, but in an attractive way, while the bulk of this full-bodied wine is fleshed out by red raspberries and chocolate. Rich, muscular and long, it should drink well for at least 3-4 years. Tasted twice, with consistent results.- JC

(all concrete) Vivid ruby. Ripe dark fruit and floral pastille aromas are complemented by hints of five-spice powder and smoky minerals. Sappy and seamless in the mouth, offering juicy blackberry liqueur, cola and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out steadily as the wine opens up. Closes sweet, long and smooth, with sneaky tannins shaping the wine's plush dark fruit. -- Josh Raynolds