This blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan is crafted in the fruit-forward style typical of Michel Chapoutier. It's quite floral, with raspberry, dark chocolate, incense, herbs, spice, and black fruit on the palate. Drink now till 2026.

Readers looking for a great introduction to Northern Rhône Syrah will love the 2020 Crozes Hermitage La Matinière, which comes from a mix of terroirs and was destemmed and brought up mostly in concrete. Crazily complex notes of red and blue fruits, flowers, and ground pepper nuances give way to a medium-bodied, juicy, elegant Crozes that's perfect for enjoying over the coming 4-6 years or so. Maturity: 2022-2028. Score - 91. (jebdunnuck.com, Dec. 15, 2022)

This wine comes from fruit (70% Grenache, 30% Syrah) grown on the left bank of the Rhône in alluvial and gravel soils. It's quite aromatic, suggesting blackberry, raspberry, blueberry and licorice, all of which carry over nicely on the palate, along with notes of fresh herbs.