The finest Cote Roties Ogier has made (and he agrees) are the 1999s. The fabulous, opaque purple-colored 1999 Cote Rotie, which spent two years in wood (30% new), reveals a glorious bouquet of bacon fat, creme de cassis, licorice, violets, and spice box. It is full-bodied, with sweet tannin, great presence in the mouth, and a knock-out finish. Although it will be approachable in its youth, 3-4 more years of cellaring will be beneficial. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2018. Michel Ogier and his son, Stephane, are producing spectacular wines. The only problem is that production is small. As I indicated last year, Ogier's 1999s are magical. - Robert Parker

Very alluring, with cocoa and mesquite notes leading the way for a supersilky palate loaded with mature vanilla, incense, black cherry, sweet tapenade and mineral notes. Has a very long, very fine-grained finish. The first vintage at this domaine to be partially destemmed.--1999 Côte-Rôtie non-blind retrospective. Drink now through 2014. 700 cases made. –JM