The regular cuvees of Cote Rotie each reflect the character of the vintage. The 1989 Brune et Blonde should be the best of the 1989, 1990 and 1991 vintages. It possesses a deeper, more saturated color, fabulously rich fruit, a big perfume of black-raspberries and roasted nuts, and a rich, corpulent, long finish. It should drink well for the next 10-12 years. Contrary to some reports, Guigal does not intend to bottle a fourth single vineyard Cote Rotie from holdings he has in La Pommiere vineyard. This vineyard continues to produce magnificent wine that is the backbone of the blend he fashions for his regular cuvee of Cote Brune et Blonde. Importer: Classic Wines, Boston, MA.

There's a deeper garnet color, with more dried cherry and cocoa powder notes. Mature and supple, with currant and spice notes lingering on the elegant finish. This still has life, with a note of coffee at the very end, but it's clearly time to drink.--Guigal non-blind vertical. Drink now. -JM

A tribute to Marcel's father. Lovely vanilla and blueberry flavors are sweet and attractive, but it's tannic and a bit lean on the palate.--Guigal Cote-Rotie vertical. -TM