2012 Thierry Allemand Cornas Reynard, Rhone, France

What it is: Reynard — Allemand's great old-vine cuvée from the steep granite slopes of Cornas — in the classic 2012 vintage.

Who it's for: Northern Rhône collectors; Thierry Allemand is the modern legend of Cornas — old vines, whole cluster, no compromise.

Taste: Dark blackberry, smoked meat, black olive, violets, and cracked pepper with power, freshness, and remarkable finesse.

Pair with: Venison, cassoulet, ribeye. Decant an hour.

Details: 2012 vintage · 750ml · Cornas, Northern Rhône, France · 100% Syrah.

Collector bottle — extremely limited.