Xavier Côtes du Rhône 2011

Outstanding and loaded with character, the 2011 Cotes du Rhone checks in as a blend of 65% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre and Syrah, which comes from a variety of terroirs and very old vines. It's great Cotes du Rhone and gives up classic black cherry, raspberry, licorice, spice and earthy notes as well as medium-bodied richness and depth. Textured, supple and long, it will deliver the goods for 3-4 years at a minimum. Drink now-2018. Score - 90. (Jeb Dunnuck, erobertparker.com, Oct. 2013)