Opaque purple, bordering on black in color, La Landonne's aromatics are the most subdued of the 1987s. Although still closed, this wine is very powerful, rich, thick, and represents the essence of the Syrah grape. That earthy, mineral, truffle, licorice component is just beginning to poke its head through this massively framed wine. It is remarkable that this vintage produced a wine of such extraordinary concentration and richness. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2020. Last tasted 8/96.

Lighter in character than most La Landonnes, this shows plum flavors and spice and licorice accents. Drink now or try in 1996.--Guigal Cote-Rotie vertical. 300 cases made. -TM