An explosive grand Syrah. Complex and deeplayered with twists and turns that spin your tastebuds around merrily. Imagine leather wet earthgrilled meat a garden in bloom and blackberrynotes--all of this comes together in thisultrasupple round generous red. Best from 2002 through 2010. 2080 cases made. –PM

Fully mature and evolved aromatically (although Jean-Paul commented that it's always shown this way), the 1997 Cote Rotie has lots of exotic spices, forest floor, tobacco, hoisin sauce and smoked bacon characteristics on the nose. Medium-bodied, rounded, supple and integrated on the palate, it has plenty of charm and is a joy to drink today, and I see no need to delay gratification. - Jeb Dunnuck