2016 L'Aventure Optimus

Moving to the wines from bottle and starting with the 2016 Optimus, which is always a great introduction into the wines of this estate, it’s a blend of 50% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Petit Verdot that spent 14 months in 60% new barrels. This full-bodied, rich yet also elegant and lively red gives up a big, sweet nose of crème de cassis, toasted spice, licorice, and graphite. With good acidity and impressive finesse and elegance as well as richness, it’s a no-brainer purchase to drink over the coming 7-8 years.