The dark ruby-colored 1999 St.-Joseph Les Dechants reveals a tell-tale liquid granite quality intermixed with floral and black fruit characteristics. It is both accessible and delicioius, with loads of fruit on the attack. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years. With respect to Chapoutier's red wines, 2000 was a very fine vintage. Interestingly, this offering revealed more fat and flesh than many of his northern Rhone peers.Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-89000

Get past the animal, rustic aromas of this wine, and it shows very fine paces. It is bursting with Syrah perfumes and ripe fruit. Solid, powerful, concentrated, with spice and fine tannins, it will develop over the next five years. ——R.V.(6/1/2002)—— 91