The opaque purple-colored 2006 Hermitage Ex-Voto reveals notes of black fruits, graphite, ink and acacia flowers along with fabulous intensity, a full-bodied mouthfeel, good acidity and high, but sweet tannins that caress the palate. Despite having spent 42 months in barrel, it remains a youthful wine that should age effortlessly for 30+ years.

A very dense, slightly brawny version, delivering a mix of crushed currant and warm fig sauce aromas and flavors that are liberally framed with bittersweet cocoa and roasted espresso notes. The dark, anise- and graphite-filled finish needs some time to settle into itself. Best from 2011 through 2021. 725 cases made.