More Hermitage-like notes of cassis, graphite, scorched earth, and burning embers emerge from the 2019 Saint Joseph Les Royes, a full-bodied, deep, powerful yet also focused and pure Saint Joseph. With incredible purity of fruit, good acidity, and flawless balance, it’s an incredible Saint Joseph to enjoy over the coming 15 years or more. It’s up with the finest wines from this appellation I’ve tasted.

Defined on the nose by scents of mocha deepening into espresso, the 2019 Saint Joseph Les Royes also boasts enough ripe blueberry fruit to balance things out. It's full-bodied and supple, marking a big difference in tannin quality compared to the domaine bottling, allowing this wine to appear plush and soft on the long finish. - Joe Czerwinski

Deep ruby. Aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, vanilla, licorice and pungent flowers are present on the nose. Broad and fleshy in the mouth, offering bitter cherry, cassis and salty olive flavors that become sweeter on the back half. Finishes long and spicy, with a hint of smokiness and steadily building tannins. One-third new oak. -- Josh Raynolds