Brusset's top wine is the 2016 Gigondas Les Secrets de Montmirail, a 60-40 blend of Grenache and Syrah from just three small terraces high in the Dentelles, with the Syrah component aged in wood. It's cedary and vanilla-scented, but those qualities are matched by concentrated black cherries. Full-bodied, plush and loaded with soft tannins, it picks up lovely notes of baking spices, cracked pepper and licorice on the long finish. Ideally, give this a couple of years in the cellar. Some might consider this too modern or international, but it's just so darn delicious.

This has some showy violet and ganache aromas, followed by mouthfilling fig, blackberry and black currant paste flavors, all supported by the requisite bramble- and tar-edged structure for balance. Shows terrific energy from start to finish. Best from 2020 through 2035. 300 cases made, 30 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Gigondas Select to Add