Plenty of fresh plum and blood orange fruit is married to a medium, moderately tannic body. This is well-made and has some structure, but the crisp finish is a bit drying. Sustainable. Drink now.

An attractive, approachable version, with a slightly gutsy edge to the silky core of plum, cherry paste and licorice interwoven with singed incense and anise. Shows salty mineral notes that add a chalky texture, while concentration builds from the fine tannins that glide through the tarry, earthy finish. Drinks beautifully now. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2028. 2,300 cases made, 150 cases imported.??–KB??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Gigondas Select to Add

Mulled blackberry and raspberry fruit is infused with dried anise, savory, black tea and incense notes, ending with a light tug of earth on the subtly juicy finish. Drink now through 2025. 2,400 cases made, 1,200 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Gigondas Select to Add

Juicy and broad, with flavors of red licorice, steeped cherry and red currant preserves pumping along, followed by a blast of fruitcake on the finish. The subtle, sandalwood-edged structure keeps this honest enough. Drink now through 2017. 2,300 cases made, 56 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Gigondas Select to Add

The traditionally-styled 2011 Gigondas Tradition is a blend of 72% Grenache, 23% Syrah and the balance Mourvedre and Cinsault that was aged all in foudre. It has loads of charm with notions of underbrush, pepper, saddle leather and smoked mesquite-like aromas and flavors to go with a medium-bodied, moderately concentrated, yet beautifully balanced profile on the palate. It’s a knockout value that, while I don’t think it will make old bones, should drink nicely over the coming 5-7 years or so. Various American importers including: Simon N Cellars, Charlottesville, VA; tel. (434) 977-4476 and Martine’s Wine, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400