Moving to the 2016s, all of which were tasted out of barrel, the 2016 The Maven is mostly Grenache yet has 8% Mourvèdre in the blend. Reminding me of the Châteauneuf du Pape Pure cuvée from Barroche, this brilliant effort boasts awesome notes of kirsch, black raspberries, ground pepper, and crushed flower, full-bodied richness, a stacked mid-palate, and a layered, seamless texture. Don’t miss it.

Plump and lively, featuring expressive blackberry and smoky peppered beef notes that balance a plush texture with snappy acidity. Grenache and Mourvedre. Drink now through 2024. 310 cases made.