Spiky dried herb, wood and cedar join an aromatic invitation of lavender in this lovely, powerful blend of 67% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot, all from the estate. Earthy and fresh in bright underlying acidity, it remains high-toned throughout, expressing currant, clove and cherry cola within well-integrated tannin and oak. Still, there's nothing wrong with cellaring. Enjoy best from 2021–2026. VIRGINIE BOONE

(92-94 points) The 2016 Firebelle checks in as a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot that’s still aging in 75% new French oak. Elegant, medium to full-bodied, bright and fresh, with perfumed notes of red plums, cherries, spice and forest floor, with a terrific gravelly minerality, it lacks the oomph of the 2015 but is certainly a perfumed, elegant, balanced red.

Composed of 67% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Firebelle (White Label) has a seductive nose of spiced black berries, black forest cake, preserved plums and kirsch with touches of eucalyptus, espresso, licorice and dried herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the spiced black fruit flavors completely coat the palate with loads of mint and herbal sparks, framed by plush tannins and just enough freshness, finishing on a lingering aniseed note.- LPB