Another perfect wine, the 2015 Ermitage Le Pavillon comes from the Bessards lieu-dit on Hermitage, which is pure granite soils. I've said it before, but will say it again, this is unquestionably the finest, most singular vineyard for Syrah in the world. Cassis, graphite, smoked herbs, liquid rocks and violet aromas give way to a huge, concentrated, opulent and off-the-charts beauty that just hints at its ultimate potential. I wouldn’t think about opening bottles for at least a decade, after which it will keep for 4-5 decades.

Surely a 100-point wine in nearly any other context, the 2015 Ermitage le Pavillon is a terrific wine. Full-bodied and intense, it offers tremendous notes of crushed stone, mocha and ripe plum given shape and texture by powerful yet ripe tannins. The finish is nearly endless, oozing with essence of granite and balanced by bright acids. Wow.

Lovely, featuring dark, plush, velvety layers of warmed fig, boysenberry and black currant confiture notes, inlaid with loam and graphite accents. Offers ample singed mesquite toast and good drive through the finish. Very well-built, with ample depth and energy in reserve. Best from 2020 through 2040. 808 cases made, 29 cases imported. — JM

Bright purple. Assertive, highly complex aromas of black and blue fruit liqueur, licorice candy and potpourri carry an exotic spice overtone. Stains the palate with concentrated blueberry, cassis and cola flavors, while a suave violet pastille nuance builds steadily with air. Velvety tannins shape a strikingly long, chewy, mineral- and spice-tinged finish that shows outstanding power and energy.