Cornas “Vallon de I’Aigle” 2015 96 WS Oct17

This is intense, with layers of dark plum, fig and blackberry confiture flavors rolling through, carried by smoldering charcoal and bay leaf notes. Grippy throughout, but the integration is there, while ganache, licorice root and sweet tapenade details fill in on the finish. Impressive. Best from 2020 through 2040. – J.M.