The 2016 Côte Rôtie Terrasses is rock-solid, and while it shows the classic, elegant style of the vintage, it brings plenty of richness and depth. Classic Côte Rôtie gamey red and black fruits, smoked herbs, bacon fat, truffly earth and some floral notes define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied and balanced, with ripe tannins and a great finish. It's about 3-4 years from maturity and should have a solid 20-25 years of overall longevity.

Deep, brilliant ruby. Spice-accented aromas of fresh black and blue fruits, violet and olive, along with a hint of cola. Juicy and seamless on the palate, offering gently sweet boysenberry and cherry flavors that are sharpened by a peppery nuance. Shows good focus on the nicely persistent, gently tannic finish, which leaves a note of bitter chocolate behind. -- Josh Raynolds