Sweet red berries, hard candy, crushed flowers, spices and mint are some of the many notes that meld together in the glass as the 2013 Roc de Cambes opens up in the glass. The 2013 is super-ripe, racy and layered, but in the soft, silky style of the year. Roc de Cambes is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new oak barrels. The style is all about texture and silkiness. The 2013 finishes with sweet floral and spice notes, as well as terrific freshness.

Bright ruby-red. Pungent, high-toned aromas of red berries, graphite and licorice, with a suggestion of menthol. Then cool and bright in the mouth, with herbal elements complementing the delicately flinty red berry flavors. Finishes with substantial ripe tannins and a minty edge. "We needed to be very careful with the use of new oak this year," owner Francois Mitjavile told me, adding that he used just 10%. "The redcurrant note, while less common in this wine, is consistent with the colder, fresher year."