Also outstanding, as well as a superb value, the 2011 Crozes Hermitage Les Trois Chenes is a medium-bodied, fresh, pure and focused Syrah that gives up impressive black raspberry, licorice, smoked beef and hints of new leather. Comprised of 100% Syrah and also aged in 30-35% new oak, it has solid mid-palate concentration, excellent focus and fine tannin that frames the finish. Give it another year or so and enjoy it through 2021. Another one of the up-and-coming producers in the northern Rhone, Emmanuel Darnaud worked with Bernard Faurie for four years before releasing his first vintage in 2001. Both of his 2011s are outstanding. Importer: A Terrisson Wines Selection, Imported By Fruit of the Vines, Long Island City NY; Tel. (718) 392-5640