The 2005 Cote Rotie Les Essartailles exhibits high levels of acidity, a dark ruby/purple color, some meatiness, black cherry and herbal notes, and a decent finish. It will age for at least a decade. This negociant firm in village of Seyssuel is run by three of the top talents of the northern Rhone, Francois Villard, Yves Cuilleron, and Pierre Gaillard. Made from purchased grapes and wine, everything is destemmed and the wines are aged in a high percentage of new oak, giving a rather modern feel to them. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565