Domaine de l'Oratoire Saint-Martin "Haut-Coustias" red 2016 MAGNUM

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Joe Czerwinski, Nov. 2019) : 94+/100. Bottled in May 2019, the 2016 Cairanne Haut Coustias is a tour de force from this small domaine. Hints of cracked pepper and licorice accent black cherries on the nose of this medium to full-bodied wine, while the palate is silky, rich and complex. This has it all: balance, length, intensity and complexity, with star anise and blackberries coming through in waves on the finish. It should drink well for a decade or more. Drink date 2019-2030

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Joe Czerwinski, Nov. 2018) : 93-95/100. Still in foudres at the time of my visit, the 2016 Cairanne Haut Coustias may be even better than the super 2015. It's more expressive on the nose, with floral notes that resemble tea roses and enchanting red raspberries. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, with a nearly endless finish. It should be approachable younger than the tannic 2015 but be just as long lived. Drink date 2019-2030