E. Guigal E. Guigal Ex Voto Ermitage 2018 750ml

Another perfect wine, the 2009 Hermitage Ex-Voto is surprisingly supple and more approachable than the two single vineyard 2009 Cote Roties, La Turque and La Landonne. The massive Ex-Voto boasts abundant notes of spring flowers, blackberries, cassis, licorice, graphite and forest floor. Extremely full-bodied with sweet tannin and levels of extravagance and flamboyance that are mind-boggling, it will drink well for 30+ years. (Robert M. Parker, Jr.)

The 2018 Ermitage Ex Voto is stunning, and comes closest in my mind to a mix of the 2015 and 2016. Showing more blue fruits, violets, chocolate, and a liquid rock-like minerality, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, massive amounts of fruit, and building tannins. While the 2017 has more upfront exuberance, I love the purity, depth, and sheer class of the 2018.

This is intense, as dense ganache, espresso, roasted juniper and alder notes form an impressive frame around an equally ornate core of steeped fig, blackberry and black currant fruit flavors, all while maintaining terrific cut and drive despite the heft. A mouthwatering iron accent at the very end seals the deal. Best from 2020 through 2040. 30 cases imported. (James Molesworth)

This has a distinctive singed mesquite note out front, along with sandalwood, black tea and juniper hints, followed by a very densely packed core of raspberry, plum and blackberry confiture flavors. The long, charcoal-studded finish has a great tug of roasted earth. Dynamic and expressive, this should cellar effortlessly. Best from 2015 through 2035. 656 cases made. (James Molesworth)

Still in barrel, the 2018 Ermitage Ex Voto continues to impress. Brown sugar notes accent cherries and raspberries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is lush and expansive, delivering waves of pleasure on the mid-palate before ending long and silky.

This was another excellent showing for the 2013 Hermitage Ex Voto and this elegant, medium to full-bodied release offers straight-up textbook notes of crème de cassis, vanilla bean, crushed rocks, graphite and spice. It lacks the mid-palate density of the 2009 and 2010, but is impeccably balanced, elegant, and offers considerable charm.