The Charmes is even more expressive with ultra ripe, roasted fruit and sweet, rich, warm, slightly alcoholic flavors that offer dazzling complexity and power. This seduces on the front end and then delivers a tidal wave of a finish. There isn't much nuance yet but I suspect this will develop plenty of complexity as it ages. To be sure, it is bigger, richer and sappier than the Griotte but I marginally prefer the precision and balance of the latter wine in this vintage.

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($149) Good medium ruby. Sappy, very pure aromas of smoky raspberry, cherry and minerals. Sweet and wild in the mouth, with perfumed fruit of great class. This has a creaminess of texture that the Mazis and Griottes can't match. Finishes with very sweet, fine tannins that are perfectly supported by fresh, aromatic red fruits. I never would have guessed this was aged in about 70% new oak.

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Hello: bright ripe red fruit on the nose. Roasted sweet cherry flavors coat the palate. Long, long finish. This is flat out delicious.