Moving to the northern Rhone releases, the 2011 Crozes Hermitage is a big, fruit forward Syrah blend that exhibits attractive blackberry, red currant, spice-box and licorice-styled aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, upfront and ready to go, it should drink nicely for 3-5 years. Owned by the Guigal team, with the wines made by Guy Sarton-de-Joncquey, Vidal Fleury produces a wealth of high quality releases, most of which represent fantastic values. In addition to the northern and southern Rhone releases reviewed here, readers should also look at Issue 209 for the remainder of the southern Rhone efforts.