The 2009 ‘Cuvée Laurence’ is an absolutely dazzling effort that is just simply delicious. It delivers seductive aromas of black cherry, raspberry, roasted plum, smoked meat, espresso, smoldering ash, melted licorice, mint and fresh mineral, which all come together and burst from the glass. This continues to impress on the rich, layered palate, where it demonstrates wonderful balance and precision, while adding in a beautiful touch of acidity that provides a sense of freshness as it heads into the finish. While this looks to be very approachable early on, it is also an age worthy wine that will continue to deliver for years to come. (JD)

Bright violet color; looks a lot younger than it is. High-pitched red fruit and floral pastille scents are deepened by notes of olive, licorice and smoked meat. Sweet, expansive and seamless, offering intense raspberry and cherry compote flavors accented by white pepper and succulent herbs. Velvety tannins build on a finish of appealing sweetness, with a touch of bitter chocolate.

Brilliant ruby. A wild, highly perfumed bouquet evokes candied dark berries, smoky minerals and licorice, with a sexy floral note emerging with air. Sappy, penetrating and sweet on the palate, offering intense black raspberry and lavender pastille flavors that put on weight with air. Shows surprising vivacity for a hot-year wine and finishes spicy, focused and very long, leaving a note of spicecake behind. (JR)