Saturated violet color. Smoky, mineral-accented black and blue fruit scents are complicated by olive paste, licorice and floral nuances that build in the glass. Juicy and energetic in the mouth, offering vibrant blackberry, boysenberry, candied violet and smoky bacon flavors that become sweeter with air. The floral and mineral notes come back strong on the penetrating finish, which shows outstanding persistence and fine-grained, harmonious tannins.

The deep purple-hued 2020 Hermitage Farconnet comes from a mix of sites and was brought up mostly in used barrels. It has classic Hermitage notes of ripe black fruits, gamey, peppery meats, violets, bouquet garni, and saddle leather. This carries to a medium to full-bodied Hermitage that's beautifully balanced and has a terrific core of sweet fruit, ripe, sweet tannins, and a great finish. It's clearly from a ripe vintage and has loads of fruit but stays pure and graceful, with nothing out of place. It's a gorgeous Hermitage to enjoy over the coming 10-15 years. I love it today.

This earthy, sanguine version is an excellent expression of place. Fruit and spices keep pace with the smoke, graphite and olive tapenade notes, plus a hint of truffle. Creamy in feel, with all of its elements integrated seamlessly. Offers old-school charm in an elegant, well-meshed and focused frame. Drink now through 2032.