2001 Cotes du Rhone Villages Rasteau

This is a blockbuster effort from proprietor Jerome Bressy, who exploits this modest-sized estate (30 acres) with vines averaging 50 years in age. One of the most concentrated, intense efforts of the southern Rhone, the 2001 is a worthy successor to the stunning 2000. An inky/plum/purple color is accompanied by aromas of melted chocolate, licorice, blackberries, meat juices, sweet cherries, and smoke. In the mouth, a scorched earth component is noticeable along with a full-bodied, massive mouthfeel, huge concentration as well as intensity, and a magnificent finish. With loads of tannin apparent, it is best cellared for another 1-3 years. It will last for a decade. Importer: Dionysus Imports, Lorton, VA; tel. (703) 550-2250

Bright ruby-red. Sexy black raspberry and sandalwood aromas, along with a distinctly reduced animal aspect. Sweet and creamy in the mouth, with pungent, aromatic, almost Cote-Rotie-like flavors of raspberry, flowers, pepper and spices. Offers a lush, seamless texture yet this is still stubbornly reduced and in need of some patience. Finishes with dusty, fine-grained tannins. Impressive, but I wouldn't uncork a bottle for at least a year. May ultimately merit a higher score.

This is a blockbuster effort from proprietor Jerome Bressy, who exploits this modest-sized estate (30 acres) with vines averaging 50 years in age. One of the most concentrated, intense efforts of the southern Rhone, the 2001 is a worthy successor to the stunning 2000. An inky/plum/purple color is accompanied by aromas of melted chocolate, licorice, blackberries, meat juices, sweet cherries, and smoke. In the mouth, a scorched earth component is noticeable along with a full-bodied, massive mouthfeel, huge concentration as well as intensity, and a magnificent finish. With loads of tannin apparent, it is best cellared for another 1-3 years. It will last for a decade. Feb 2004, www.erobertparker.com, Drink: 2005-2014