A breakthrough effort for Vernay, the 1999 Cote Rotie Maison Rouge boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sumptuous aromatics of white flowers, black raspberries, currants, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, deep, and chewy, with noticeable oak, but oodles of fruit and concentration, it should hit its stride in 3-4 years, and last for 15. It is undoubtedly the finest Cote Rotie Vernay has yet produced. An Alain Corcia Selection, various American importers, including Charmer Industries, NY; tel. (718) 726-2500, Southern Wine and Spirits, CA; tel. (510) 487-3332, Premier Wines, CA; tel. (510) 237-6284, and Calvert Woodley Wines, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-4400

Bright purple-colored wine, with huge aromas of new wood and a smooth, ripe, polished palate. Chocolate and fine acidity give flavor and structure to the wine. A very modern style of wine, which seems to have left the taste of Rhone Syrah a long way away. ——R.V.(6/1/2002)—— 88