The 2007 Cote Rotie, an outstanding success in this vintage where this estate harvested extremely late in order to take advantage of the Indian Summer weather. The wine exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as scents of licorice, subtle oak, black currants, black cherries and hints of underbrush/forest floor. Spicy, opulent, voluptuous and flamboyant, it should continue to provide plenty of pleasure for a dozen years or more. One of France’s most brilliant small artisanal wineries is that of the Ogier family in Ampuis, situated about six blocks north of Guigal’s vast network of underground cellars. The value picks are the wines made from the steep hillsides north of the old Roman settlement of Vienne.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083

Floral and inviting, with classic aromas of game, pepper, violets and berry fruits. It shows full concentration, with a plush fabric and solid flavors of black fruit, olive, spice and clove. Not overly complex or elevated; more of a solid worker wine with talent and very good quality.——W.E.(10/15/2010)—— 89