As we tasted the 2015 Crozes Hermitage, Philippe Guigal said, "It's rare we get full phenolic ripeness in Crozes. We got that in 2015." The wine's silky tannins certainly support his claim. It's medium to full-bodied, with raspberry, cherry and black olive aromas and flavors that scream of the variety, and it has a long finish. It's an outstanding value. (JC)

Bright violet. Spicy black and blue fruits, pungent flowers and a hint of smoked meat on the perfumed nose. Juicy and broad in the mouth, offering concentrated boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors that become spicier as the wine opens up. The dark berry note lingers on the persistent finish, which is given shape by smooth, harmonious tannins. (JR)

Direct, with a beam of bitter cherry, plum and singed anise notes. Light black tea and iron accents underscore the finish. (JM)