Gigondas Hautes Garrigues Domaine Santa Duc 2017 (750ML)

95-97 Points, Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre, the 2017 Gigondas Les Hautes Garrigues is less aromatic than it was last year, folding in darker notes of black cherries and chocolate. Yet it's still wonderfully full and textured, with a plush, velvety feel and a long finish. It seems to grow in aroma and flavor the longer it's in the glass, always a good sign." 8/19

94-95 Points, Josh Raynolds, Vinous: "Brilliant magenta. Highly perfumed aromas of ripe red/blue fruits, exotic spices and incense, along with a smoky mineral nuance that builds as the wine opens up. Smooth and seamless in texture, offering palate-staining raspberry and cherry pie, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors that convey a suave blend of power and finesse. Finishes sweet, gently tannic and extremely long, leaving behind exotic star anise and floral notes." 2/20

93-95+ Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com: "The flagship cuvée, which comes from older vines on the lower plateau around the estate, the 2017 Gigondas Hautes Garrigues has a big chunk of Mourvèdre in 2017 (60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre brought up in tank). Possessing beautiful black fruits, spice, licorice, and hints of meatiness, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, stunning purity of fruit, and fine yet present tannins. It's going to need bottle age but is a promising Gigondas. It's easily my favorite in the lineup." 9/18