The 2007 Cote Rotie La Garde from the Cote Blonde is a softer wine displaying sweet black cherry fruit, caramel, bacon fat, and floral characteristics. Lush, round, richly fruity, and medium to full-bodied, it is ideal for drinking over the next 8-10 years. (Not yet released) These cuvees tend to be modern-styled, barrique-aged wines with good density, but occasionally too much oak and relatively high tannins. These are all top sites, and I think the potential exists for even better wines to be produced at Domaine de Bonserine. The 2007s are strong efforts for the vintage. Importer Diageo Chateau and Estate Wines, New York, NY; tel. (646) 223-2200

A solid example of the grippy, slightly woodsy style, with a coffee and bitter cocoa frame to the blackberry, currant and cherry pit notes. The muscular finish lets bay leaf and licorice root notes fill in, but stays fresh enough. Drink now through 2020. 300 cases made. –JM