The 2020 M5 is fabulous. It offers striking purity of fruit in a vibrant style that bristles with energy. Dark blue/purplish fruit, lavender, sage, mint and lavender race across the palate. Time in the glass brings out Grenache inflections and tons of aromatic presence.

This annual blend is truly a benchmark for Grenache-based Rhône blends from California. This vintage's mix of 49% Grenache, 31% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Counoise and 5% Cinsault offers aromas of dark raspberry, rose petal, cinnamon, sumac and dried meat on the nose. The acid-washed, delicately tannic palate is fresh, with currant and raspberry, yet loaded with oregano, dried flower and more game flavors.

A zesty blend with genuine personality, this red offers an array of cherry, cranberry, licorice and lavender accents that finish with snappy tannins. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Counoise and Cinsault. Drink now through 2029. 3,094 cases made.

Moving to the reds, the 2020 M5 checks in as a blend of 49% Grenache, 31% Syrah, and the remainder Mourvèdre, Counoise, and Cinsault. It offers bright darker berry and cherry fruits as well as notes of ground pepper and leafy herbs. Balanced and medium-bodied, with good concentration as well as freshness, it reminds me of a solid Côtes du Rhône and will keep for 5-7 years, if not longer.