The 2000 Hermitage Marquis de la Tourette is impressive. It is made from 90% Marsanne and 10% Roussanne and aged 100% in barrel. The wine exhibits deep flavors, an unctuous texture, and a long, concentrated finish.
This is a good commercial example.
The significant difference in quality between the outstanding 1999 northern Rhone vintage and the above average yet essentially correct 2000 is dramatically evidenced in Delas's wines. The 2000 red offerings reveal charming ripeness, but also the vintage's softness, lightness, and lack of depth.
Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000.