1999 Crozes Hermitage Cuvee Louis Belle
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Tasting notes
The old vine selection, the 1999 Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Louis Belle, was aged 12 months in oak barrels, of which 30% was new. It all emerges from the hillside sector known as Larnage. There are nearly 4,000 cases of this spectacular wine, which has more in common with Hermitage than Crozes-Hermitage. A saturated ruby/purple color is followed by fabulous aromas of creme de cassis, licorice, minerals, and spice. The wine is multilayered and full-bodied, with superb purity as well as harmony. It can be drunk or cellared for 12-15 years. This is the strongest line-up from Domaine Albert Belle that I have tasted. Given the price, it represents a super bargain. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083
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Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The old vine selection, the 1999 Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Louis Belle, was aged 12 months in oak barrels, of which 30% was new. It all emerges from the hillside sector known as Larnage. There are nearly 4,000 cases of this spectacular wine, which has more in common with Hermitage than Crozes-Hermitage. A saturated ruby/purple color is followed by fabulous aromas of creme de cassis, licorice, minerals, and spice. The wine is multilayered and full-bodied, with superb purity as well as harmony. It can be drunk or cellared for 12-15 years. Apr 2002, www.robertparker.com
Full ruby. Nuanced aromas of cassis, leather, espresso and brown spices. Dense and structured and inky sweet flavors of black cherry and violet. There is good stuffing here to buffer the tannins.