This Rhône red is intensely perfumed with the inky spiciness so unique to Syrah then firm and concentrated on the palate with loads of ripe blackberry anise and smoke flavors. Rich yet polished it marries traditional structure with modern fruit. Approachable now but better with age. Drink now through 2014. 3500 cases made.

The 1994 red Hermitage appears to be superb. Last year it tasted like a richer sibling of the 1985. This year it tasted significantly richer but with the 1985's softness elegance and precocious appeal. The wine possesses a black/ruby/purple color an intense smoky cassis and mineral-scented nose full body superb density a soft attack good grip and a long impressively endowed finish. It is a wine of undeniable power spice tannin fruit silk and fat-what else can you ask for? It should be drinkable by the year 2000 and last for 25 + years. Last tasted 6/96.