2000 Costieres de Nimes Hippolyte

Firm, stern oaked older brother to the hugely successful simple red from this domaine for early drinking. Excellent colour and autumnal nose. Don't even think about opening it for a while though. (JR)

Spices, toasted oak, and dark fruits can be discerned in the aromatics of the 2000 Hippolyte Costieres de Nimes. This foursquare, medium-bodied wine is oak and blackberry-laden. This extracted, tannic wine should be consumed between 2003 and 2009. Note: This is a special cuvee produced exclusively for the United States market with the assistance of the estate's American importer. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083.

Saturated ruby-red. Roasted berries, bitter chocolate and port-like suggestions of exotic fruit syrup and prune. Dense, rich and fat, with porty flavors of exotic berries, chocolate and damp earth. Not especially primary but has good texture, dimension and length. Finishes with substantial but ripe tannins. A plump, satisfying wine for early drinking.