Gigondas Clos Derrieres Vielle Domaine Santa Duc 2016 (750ML)

93-95 Points, Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Less garrigue-laden than some of the other Gigondas bottlings at this domaine, the full-bodied 2016 Gigondas Clos Derriere Vieille is rich, ripe and fruit-driven, offering fresh berries and cherries that pick up lovely hints of roses and tea leaves on the long, silky finish." 8/18

93-95 Points, Josh Raynolds, Vinous: "Lurid ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of Chambord, potpourri, garrigue and Asian spices carry an intense mineral overtone. Impressively concentrated, seamless and penetrating on the palate, offering densely packed raspberry liqueur, cherry pastry and floral pastille flavors that put on weight with air while maintaining vivacity. The floral quality repeats emphatically on the gently tannic finish, which clings with serious tenacity and appealing sweetness." 08/18

93-94 Points, James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com: "Trademark Santa Duc freshness and purity with a swerve into darker-fruit territory. Plums and blackberries, dark, brambly herbs and woody spices. The palate is fresh, lithe and punchy. Really impressive. Drink or hold." 08/18

92 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: "From terraced, higher elevation sites, the 2016 Gigondas Clos Derriere Vieille always shows a more perfumed, red fruited, elegant style, and this is no exception. Raspberries, strawberries, spice, and incredible floral notes all emerge from this fresh, silky, layered effort that just glides across the palate. It's not the biggest or richest wine in the lineup but shines for its nuance, complexity, and elegance. It will keep for 10-15 years." 9/18