Made from schist and granite soils, this cuvée 'La Croix des Vignes' comes from 100% Syrah grapes on south-facing hillsides. Total destemming and fermentation at controlled temperature, aging for 9 months in oak barrels renewed with 15% new wood. Notes of candied black fruits perfume the glass, mixed with subtle notes of nuts, chocolate and dried figs. The mouth shows a nice granitic length coiled in a rich body with tapered tannins.

Dark violet color. Highly fragrant, spice-tinged red and dark berry aromas, along with suggestions of smokey minerals, potpourri and licorice. Juicy and lithe on the palate, offering bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors that deepen steadily through the midpalate. Shows fine definition and spicy cut on a long, smooth finish that features well-knit tannins and a lingering suggestion of black pepper. Made from two sites on the granite soils of Tournon (two hectares) and Mauves (half a hectare) and raised in 20% new oak. - 94 - Josh Raynolds - Vinous Media