A solidly built version, with crushed cherry and plum puree notes that meld with melted red licorice before singed juniper takes over on the finish. This has guts and range. Drink now through 2023. 20,000 cases made, 10,000 cases imported.

Gigondas legend Louis Barruol purchases grapes from the Gard to produce this 100% Syrah Côtes-du-Rhône bottling. Plump and generous in mouthfeel, it's an undeniably southern, sun-drenched expression of Syrah but with a cutting mineral freshness and salty tang on the finish. Soft tannins and hints of bramble and cut stone rim flavors of rich, ruddy black-cherry and plum preserves. Best enjoyed young.

The 2020 Côtes Du Rhône, which is mostly Syrah, is a bigger, richer wine delivering more weight and texture. Lots of dark, peppery, chocolate fruit as well as medium body, round tannins, and solid length on the finish make for a rock-solid Côtes Du Rhône.