Ripe and juicy, this is a well-built version offering up a range of enticing black cherry, plum and fig fruit flavors while singed alder, garrigue and dried lavender notes chime throughout. Ample fruit on the finish with a savory streak providing a nice counterpoint. (JM)

The 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape is a terrific effort from this variable vintage, loaded with rich, ripe flavors of red and purple raspberries, black cherries and oodles of Provençal herbs. It's full-bodied and nearly creamy in texture, with silky tannins that make a subtle appearance on the licorice-tinged finish. Looking even more concentrated and structured than last year, it should drink well for at least a decade. While well-heeled consumers fight over the limited volumes of the super 2018 Collection Charles Giraud and Reserve Auguste Favier, the smart money will be chasing the regular bottlings of red and white Châteauneuf du Pape. The 2019 Côtes du Rhône Beatus Ille is almost as good, and it retails around $20—an even better bargain. (JC)