2015 Faugères AOC Hecht & Bannier

Syrah, Mourvédre, Carignan

Intense, deep and mineral

Wine Spectator 91 points: A muscular but refined red, bursting with wild berry, herb and spice notes, underpinned by accents of cured meat and tea. Tangy acidity carries into the floral and fresh earth aromas on the finish. Syrah, Mourvedre and Carignan. Drink now through 2023. 250 cases made, 100 cases imported. —G.S

Parker-Czerwinski 90 points: Two years of élevage in foudres and demi-muids has smoothed out any rough edges in the 2015 Faugeres. A blend of Syrah and Mourvèdre, it's concentrated but silky, with dark-fruit flavors marked by hints of mocha and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, it shows admirable length on the mineral-encrusted finish. Drink dates 2019-2024