A new discovery for me, the 2007 Cotes du Rhone (a 4,000+-case blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, and Counoise) is a seriously built, concentrated, powerful effort displaying notes of garrigue, pepper, lavender, kirsch, and black currants. It also exhibits that wonderful seaweed wrapper (nori) scent that seems to be a characteristic of many southern Rhone wines. This full-bodied Cotes du Rhone will benefit from another 1-2 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 7-8 years. Importer: Maverick Selections, Novato, CA; tel. (707) 363-2590

The nose is opulently fruity, with strawberry top notes and an undercurrent of cherry liquor. There's more nuance on the palate with dense notes of olive and coffee. Grippy, medium finish. Try with barbecue. ——W.E.(10/15/2010)—— 88