Wherever Tardieu-Laurent got this fruit exhibits this potential as the 2005 Vacqueyras Vieilles Vignes is a dense ruby/purple colored wine that reveals wonderful creme de cassis, black cherry, licorice, and camphor and spice. It is heady, rich, full-bodied, and luscious. It should drink well for 10-12 years. Michel Tardieu, who has exceptional knowledge about some of the finest vineyards and grape sources in both the northern and southern Rhone, utilizes the consulting services of renowned oenologist Philippe Cambie. The southern cuvees in 2005 were all very strong. These wines are generally aged in small, new oak barrels but with the Grenache cuvees kept in less new oak. Certainly they can show some new oak early in their life, but experience has taught me that after 4-5 years they become well-integrated in the richer, riper years.Importers: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808, Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0029 and William-Harrison Imports, Inc. Manassas, Virginia 20109 (tel) (703) 815-9463.

Really exotic, with fig, raspberry, Port reduction, mocha, cinnamon and melted licorice aromas and flavors rippling over creamy tannins. The superlong finish shows notes of sweet earth and fruit mingled together. This has to resolve itself a bit more before it fully hits its stride. Best from 2009 through 2013. 475 cases made, 68 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Vacqueyras Select to Add