A complex blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Cinsault and 5% Mourvèdre, the 2016 Cotes du Rhone Villages Sablet is wonderfully creamy and plush, with waves of ripe cherries and berries accented by hints of orange zest and black tea. It's full-bodied but lithe and elegant, finishing long.

The 2012 C?tes du Rh?ne Villages Sablet is a fruity, jammy, Proven?al effort that has straightforward cherry, garrigue and hints of leather to go with medium-bodied richness and depth. Drink it over the coming couple of years.

Sturdy and solid. Nothing flashy here, just burly cherry fruit aromas and flavors with a modicum of spice. Drink now—maybe with something similarly styled, like a beef stew. ——J.C.(11/15/2006)—— 86