Even better, the 2017 Rasteau Les Argiles Bleues (80/20 Grenache and Syrah) just screams Rasteau with its ripe, chocolaty dark fruit and scorched earth aromas and flavors. It's rich, has tons of minerality, medium to full body, and a great finish. It's capable of lasting for over a decade.

This gushes with dark plum and boysenberry compote flavors, backed by a light graphite edge and gently singed mulling spice accents on the fleshy finish. A crowd-pleaser. Drink now through 2021. 450 cases made, 80 cases imported.

Could the 2017 Rasteau Argiles Bleues be even better than the excellent 2016? It's certainly a big step up from the regular 2017 bottling. Ripe notes of cola, plum and dried spices lead into a full-bodied, expansive palate that's rich and velvety in texture, finishing long and layered. It should drink well for at least 6-7 years.