The 2004 Gigondas Hominis Fides is easily one of the top one to two wines in the vintage. A knockout effort coming from sandy soils, this blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah has layers of toasted spice, graphite, barbecued meat, licorice and blackberry styled fruits to go with full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. Aged 12 months in 3-year-old barrels, it has gorgeous underlying tannic structure that’s partially concealed by a seamless, elegant texture, and it turns chewy and rich on the lengthy finish. A big wine that makes the most of the vintage, it will continue to drink nicely through 2024.

Ruby-red. Powerfully aromatic nose melds pungent floral and underbrush tones with dark cherry and berries. Deep and sweet, with concentrated cherry, pepper and spice flavors. Finishes solid and muscular. "This must be cellared," says Barruol.