A blend of 97% Syrah, 2% Grenache and 1% Roussanne, the 2016 Hommage à nos Pairs Reserve wafts from the glass with notes of roasted plums, blackberry, cassis, grilled meats and subtle espresso roast. On the palate, it's full-bodied, ample and juicy, with a layered, concentrated mid-palate and lovely energy and cut, framed by fine, chalky tannins. Even though the blend is quite different, this barrel sample reminded me of Languedoc superstar Laurent Vaillé's Grange des Pères.