Primarily from Greffieux and Muret, the 2009 Hermitage exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as notes of sweet cassis and blackberries intermixed with hints of flowers, licorice and asphalt. Made in a relatively forward style, it should drink well for 10-15 years. This relatively new negociant operation combines two of the great families of the Rhone Valley, the Perrins in Chateauneuf du Pape and the Jaboulets in the northern Rhone. In this case, it is Nicolas Jaboulet working with the Perrins. Their objective is to produce high quality selections from major northern appellations. Launching a new brand in a difficult economic environment is always risky, but given the resources available to these two families, this should be a brand worth following. Their first releases were from challenging vintages such as 2006 and 2007, and they appear to be hitting their stride with the 2009s and 2010s.Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

Leathery, earthy and spicy, with dried fruit flavors framed by soft tannins. This full-bodied offering from the new negociant venture between Nicolas Jaboulet and the Perrin family is reasonably complex and mouthwatering on the finish. Drink now–2020.——J.C.(10/1/2011)—— 89