Moving to the 2011s, all of which were still in barrel, the most forward and plush of the lineup is the 2011 Cote Rotie La Sarrasine. Incorporating 5% Viognier and aged 24 months in 80% new demi-muids, this medium to full-bodied, voluptuously-styled red offers up notions of black raspberry, licorice, crushed stone, earth and aged beef. It should drink nicely on release and hold nicely for a decade. Domaine de Bonserine, which was purchased by the Guigal family in 2006, covers a whopping 25 acres in Cote Rotie (second largest estate in Cote Rotie), mostly in the northern portion of the appellation in the lieux-dits of Champin, Fongeant, La Vialliere, Les Moutonnes and Cote Brune (among others). In addition, they have just under 3 acres in Condrieu. The normally produce three Cote Roties in a given vintage; the larger production La Sarrasine, the single vineyard La Vialliere, of which there are roughly 400 cases made, and the old vine La Garde, which is never more than 300 cases. Importer: Europvin; www.europvin.com

This sports a lovely beam of red currant, blood orange and damson plum fruit, framed by bright iron, white pepper and black olive notes. Vivid and pure, with cut and persistence through the finish. Best from 2015 through 2027. 2,500 cases made