A single whiff of this wine unleashes loads of sun-kissed black-plum and lilac perfume. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, it's colossally ripe and concentrated but maintains a zinginess accentuated by crisp cassis and cranberry acidity. Forward, primary black-fruit flavors and fine, chalky tannins make it immediately enjoyable but it should drink well through 2030.

Bright magenta. Heady, spice-accented boysenberry and cherry aromas are complicated by building lavender and baking spice nuances. Seamless and appealingly sweet, offering spice-laced red and blue fruit liqueur and floral pastille flavors that are underscored by a vein of juicy acidity. Finishes smooth and quite long, displaying harmonious tannins and lingering spiciness.

Features an alluring core of dark cherry and plum fruit, accented by anise, garrigue and black tea notes. Dense, yet silky and refined overall, with a lingering mineral echo. Best from 2021 through 2027.

Lots of Christmas spice, black raspberry, and crushed flowers emerge from the 2017 Gigondas, which is incredibly elegant, medium-bodied, and has ultra-fine tannins that build on the finish. This is a pretty, seamless wine to drink over the coming 10-15 years.