Delas Freres St. Joseph Cuvee Francois de Tournon 2011

WA95: An off-the-hook effort and possibly the wine of the vintage in Saint Joseph, the 2011 Francois De Tournon (100% Syrah aged 16 months in 30% new French oak) boasts incredible aromatics, full-bodied richness and depth, and masses of sweet, mouth-coating tannin. Smoked meats, currants, blackberry, crushed stone and pan drippings are just some of the nuances here, and this fabulously concentrated, impressive 2011 will drink nicely for 12-15 years.

VM91: Saturated ruby. Brooding, complex aromas and flavors of cherry-vanilla, cassis, smoky minerals and candied violet. Rich and gently sweet in the mouth, with good depth and a subtle note of licorice. Finishes long and juicy, with youthfully chewy but harmonious tannins and a lingering dark berry note.