The 2018 Cote Rotie les Grandes Places (assembled from several barrels) boasts aromas of tar, blackberries and blueberries. It`s medium to full-bodied, open-knit and a bit tannic, but it`s ripe, flavorful and long on the finish. 92-94 points

Intensely perfumed, mineral-accented aromas of dark fruit liqueur, pungent flowers and licorice show excellent clarity and energetic lift. Juicy blackberry, boysenberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors deepen slowly through the midpalate while picking up a spicy nuance. Broad and chewy in texture, with a strikingly long, floral-driven finish that features well-knit tannins and an echo of exotic spices. Made with 50% new oak. 96-97 points