Charles Smith Royal City Syrah 2014

Coming from the Royal Slope, which no doubt will deservedly have its own appellation before long, enchanting aromas of ground rock, green olive, green stem, crushed flower and dark fruit lead to a panoply of fruit and savory flavors that shake the senses to the core, with smoked meat notes persisting on the long finish. It’s an intense experience but maintains a sense of balance that is heart stopping. Drink from 2020-2027. Cellar Selection

A dense and layered red with a clay, terracotta, white-pepper and smoked-meat character. Full-bodied, round and juicy. Very flavorful and rich. Côte-Rôtie baby. Drink or hold.

Dense and brooding, this combines a deep, taut structure with intense blackberry, crushed stone and licorice flavors that lead to broad-shouldered but polished tannins. Best from 2021 through 2025. 734 cases made.