The 2010 Heloise is another in a string of fabulous wines from this estate located high up in the Ventoux. The smoky, herbal aromas are reminiscent of Côte Rôtie, and in many ways, this is a more northern expression of the Rhône. It's lithe and medium-bodied, with a silky mouthfeel and long, espresso-tinged finish, all imparting a sense of easy elegance to this blend of Syrah, Grenache and Viognier. It can be drunk now and over the next decade or more.

Opaque ruby. Highly fragrant, mineral-accented aromas of ripe dark fruits, candied licorice and woodsmoke develop an Indian spice nuance in the glass. Fleshy and impressively concentrated but energetic as well, offering bitter cherry and boysenberry flavors that become sweeter with air. Finishes with strong, mineral-driven persistence and velvety tannins that sneak up slowly.

Unusual on the nose because it has lots of peppery Syrah character but also a definite red-fruit quality. Beautifully fine texture, great restraint, although it opens up in the glass to a more fragrant side and marked persistence. It smells really cool even though the wine itself is room temperature. Still youthful but coming into its stride, fresh and cool on the finish.

Mature, with gently mulled cherry, currant and plum fruit flavors infused with mocha, anise and juniper notes. The structure is fine-grained and well-integrated. Shy on vibrancy but still solid. Syrah, Grenache and Viognier. Drink now through 2020.