Hess Persson Estates The Hess Collection The Lion 2018 750ml

Gorgeously lush and seductive up front, showing açaí, blueberry and boysenberry compote flavors that are hefty but glide through, with anise, apple wood and fruitcake details that seemingly sparkle as it all cruises through the finish. Features a perfectly embedded graphite spine underneath it all, which should let this version evolve slowly in the cellar. Delivers a flashy display of fruit carried off with aplomb. Best from 2023 through 2038. 693 cases made. (James Molesworth)

Supple with underlying tension and complexity, this wine, blended with 16% Malbec, is brimming and bright in cassis, red cherry and plum. Dried herb, cedar and a hint of sage accent the edges of the concentrated core of enduring richness. (Virginie Boone)