My favorite of the lineup and the most elegant and refined, the 2006 Thierry Allemand Cornas Reynard has stunning aromatics of cassis, earth and spice that are supported by underlying meat, graphite and charcoal notes. This opens up in the glass revealing a hint of new wood to the aromas. In the mouth, the wine is medium to full bodied with a silky texture, concentrated fruit, perfect balance and a long, detailed, tannic finish. I’m a fan and this is a gorgeous wine that does almost everything right. If I had more, I’d probably crack another bottle tomorrow. My best guess is that this will drink well over the next 10 to 15 years.

(scheduled to be bottled in December 2008) Vivid ruby. Intensely perfumed nose displays spicy red berry and cherry scents, with deeper cocoa and licorice qualities. Chewy, slightly bitter berry and cherry skin flavors are firmed by dusty tannins. Becomes sweeter on the finish, with the licorice note echoing. More powerful than the Chaillot but I prefer that wine's clarity and elegance right now.