The 2018 Gigondas Les Hauts De Montmirail is similarly hued yet has a slightly richer style in its kirsch and darker berry fruits, toasted spice, peppery garrigue, and violet aromas and flavors. A more Grenache-dominated blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and the rest Mourvèdre brought up in 50% new French oak, this medium to full-bodied effort has terrific depth of fruit, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's one of the standouts in 2018 and is going to drink great for 10-12 years.

Vivid ruby. High-pitched red fruit, floral and spice aromas show very good clarity and pick up mineral and succulent herb flourishes with air. Appealingly sweet and energetic on the palate, offering juicy raspberry, cherry and boysenberry flavors that deepen through the back half. Finishes very long, sweet and precise, with sneaky tannins lending gentle closing grip.