The far stronger vintage of 2005 is evidenced by the 2005 St.-Joseph Les Lauves, which has a dark ruby/purple color, notes of crushed rocks, flowers, strawberry, and black cherry fruit. It is medium-bodied and will drink nicely for a decade. The well-known consulting oenologist in the Rhone Valley, Jean-Luc Colombo, has an ever-expanding negociant business for his wines. With the exception of his three estate wines of Cornas, all of the other wines listed are negociant bottlings. He is a talented winemaker and that is evidenced in his whites. Importer: Palm Bay Imports, Boca Raton, Fl; tel. (561) 362-9642

Boasts notes typical of the dark side of Syrah--black olive and espresso--yet never really takes charge. Instead, it's a plump, lightly textured wine that would be easy enough to drink if not particularly memorable.——J.C.(4/1/2010)—— 85