The 1996 Hermitage is a wine of massive richness, extraordinary purity, and enormous potential. The saturated opaque purple color is followed by a youthful, unevolved bouquet of tar, cassis, blackberries, and stones. Superb in the mouth, with full body, fabulous richness, and a layered, multi-dimensional personality, it is another tour de force in winemaking, but it requires 7-10 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. Importers: Bacchus Importers, tel. (410) 633-0400, Stacole Imports, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0029; Martin Scott Wines Ltd., Little Neck, NY; Ventures in Wine, Daly City, CA; Atlantic Importing Co., Newton, MA; Fine Vines, Maywood, IL and all the importers representing the selections of French broker, Patrick Lesec (Paris fax # 011 33 1 44 70 62 93)

A dream of a wine, ethereal in its cloudlike lightness yet deeply anchored in its terroir. Medium-bodied, the succulent red berry and blackberry notes take the leading role in this dramatic interpretation of the juicy and pure '96 vintage, with the subtle spicy oak, gamy, smoky character charging up the lingering, balanced finish. Drink now through 2003. 275 cases made.??–PM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Hermitage Select to Add