From the appellation’s lower slopes (which are better known for white wines), the 2003 Ermitage Les Greffieux Vieilles Vignes (fewer than 100 cases produced) displays notes of white flowers, a liqueur of crushed rocks, dense creme de cassis flavors, and full-bodied opulence as well as density. It is a stunning wine, but is virtually unobtainable given the tiny production. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Dark, loaded with bittersweet cocoa, black currant, blackberry and tar aromas and flavors, all pushed by the ripe, powerful structure. Long and dense finish shows more toast than fruit now, but there's plenty there in reserve. Not imported into the U.S. Best from 2008 through 2020. 200 cases made.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Ermitage Select to Add