2006 St. Jean Barroux "La Pierre Noire" Côtes du Ventoux

94 points Robert Parker: "Although slightly more expensive than most offerings in this report, this wine was just too remarkable not to include. A sensational red, it reveals a grand cru Burgundy-like bouquet of forest floor, black raspberries, and flowers, extraordinarily intense fruit, and a full-bodied yet delicate, layered mouthfeel. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it aromatics reminded me of some top vintages of Cotes de Nuits grand crus, although no oak is utilized. A remarkable achievement, it can be consumed over the next 4-5 years, although it may last even longer.A breakthrough effort for the Cotes du Ventoux, this 2006, made by proprietor Philippe Gimel from his bio-dynamically farmed vineyards, is a blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah. (I was not surprised to learn that Gimel apprenticed under Christophe Sabon at Domaine de la Janasse.) Yields were 15 hectoliters per hectare, and the wine was aged in concrete tanks." (08/10) 90 points Wine Spectator: "Still fleshy, though the dark plum and blackberry notes are moving to the background, while lightly charry mesquite, incense, black tea and mulled spice notes take over. The finish is weighty, but has range and definition. Grenache and Syrah." (10/10) 14.5% abv.