Just a small step back from the Les Bessards, the 2012 Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes is a stunning effort that exhibits blockbuster notes of toasted spice, leather, peppery herbs and sweet black and blue fruit. Seeing 16 months in 60% new French oak, it's a powerful, concentrated and full-bodied effort that has lots of tannin, but more than enough fruit to handle it. Like the Les Bessards, shorter-term cellaring is advised here and it will have over two decades of longevity. - Jeb Dunnuck

This carries an attractive, mineral laced, high-toned floral nose with plum and raspberry coulis all underscored by baking spices and fresh cracked pepper. There is nice volume and texture on entry showing a sleek and fresh profile of tightly coiled red fruits and plum. That pepper notes come through strong to cut through the fruit as well as picking up a trace of crushed rock flavors. This is classic northern Rhone syrah. This is showing quite well already, but possesses the stuffing to carry for another 15+ years gracefully.

Well-packed, with raspberry and blackberry pâte de fruit notes, studded with anise and briar details. Dense yet racy. Mouthwatering acidity drives the finish, which reveals ample grip in reserve. Best from 2016 through 2022. — J.M.