Lastly, and a big step up, the 2020 Gigondas Les Hautes Garrigues is equal parts Grenache and Mourvèdre that was raised in foudres and amphorae. It doesn't have the sheer power or concentration of previous great vintages, but I love its balance, purity, and finesse. Red and black fruits, spicy garrigue, and floral notes make for a classic Gigondas that's medium to full-bodied, has ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. It's a gorgeous Gigondas any way you look at it. Give bottles 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+.

Dark violet color. The nose presents powerfully scented cherry-cola, blackberry, fruitcake and exotic spice aromas, along with suggestions of licorice and incense. Offers penetrating, finely etched red and dark berry preserve, allspice, candied floral and smoked meat flavors that deepen and become sweeter as the wine opens up. Closes with superb tenacity and building tannins that frame reverberating floral and dark berry notes.