2015 Hermitage Les Greffieux Bessards

Inky ruby. Mineral-accented, highly perfumed aromas of ripe red and blue fruits, spicecake and potpourri, with a spicy topnote that builds in the glass. Sappy, fresh and penetrating on the palate, offering vibrant blueberry and raspberry flavors that are complemented by hints of candied violet and star anise. Shows excellent clarity and mineral lift on the strikingly persistent finish, which is framed by smooth, slow-mounting tannins.

(gold capsule) Lurid ruby. Heady, smoke-tinged blueberry, cherry pit, violet and licorice scents show excellent clarity and a hint of gaminess. Sweet and broad on the palate, offering densely packed red and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors plus a suggestion of Asian spices. Closes sappy, lively and very long, with an echo of sweet blue fruit and smooth, harmonious tannins that build slowly.

(white capsule): Youthful purple. Vibrant, mineral-accented red fruit and floral pastille scents are complemented by hints of smoky minerals and incense. Juicy, penetrating and pure, displaying outstanding vivacity and lift to the gently sweet raspberry and spicecake flavors. Shows a suave blend of power and finesse and finishes juicy and very long, with smooth tannins coming in late.