M. Chapoutier Yannick Alléno & Michel Chapoutier Guer-Van 2016 750ml

The 100% Syrah 2016 Crozes Hermitage Guer Van sports a saturated purple color as well as a classic bouquet of dark fruits, peppery herbs, damp earth, and violets. From the northern part of Crozes and granite soils, this medium to full-bodied, rich, concentrated yet elegant Syrah shines on all accounts. This cuvée was mostly destemmed (there’s 15% stems) and brought up all in used demi-muids. Drink it over the coming decade.

Deep ruby. Ripe dark fruit and game aromas are complemented by suggestions of woodsmoke, licorice and dark chocolate. Hefty and broad in the mouth, offering chewy blackberry, bitter cherry and smoky bacon flavors and a spicy touch of cracked pepper. Distinctly weighty and rich, with chewy tannins building on the floral- and spice-tinged finish. (Josh Raynolds)