2011 Domaine La Bouïssière Gigondas

Inky ruby. Ripe cherry and dark berries on the fragrant, spice-accented nose. Shows bright red fruit character on the palate, with notes of candied lavender and spicecake adding complexity. Dusty tannins give shape to the finish, which clings with excellent fruity persistence.

A classic, traditional effort that’s loaded with southern Rhone flare, the 2011 Gigondas gives up loads of peppery, underbrush and herbs meat-like qualities as well as a core of sweet, dark fruit. Building in richness in the glass, with medium-bodied depth and texture, as well as a tinge of the savory tannin that’s common in the vintage, it can be consumed now or anytime over the coming 7-8 years. A Peter Vezan Selection, various American importers including: Michael Skurnick, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Vintner Select, Cincinnati, OH; tel. (513) 229-3630

Opaque ruby. Deeply pitched aromas of cherry and cassis, with licorice and Indian spice accents. Showing pretty serious concentration for the vintage, with bitter cherry and dark berry flavors and an enlivening spiciness. Finishes focused and long, with strong thrust and lingering spiciness.