Coming all from hillside plots, the 2011 Crozes Hermitage is another outstanding effort from Barruol. More mineral-driven, with ample crushed rock, blackberry, creme de cassis, game and spice, it is up-front and fruit-loaded on the palate. Despite the up-front nature here, it has solid mid-palate concentration and fine tannin, as well as superb overall balance, all suggesting it should evolve gracefully too. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years. In addition to producing some of the best Gigondas out there, superstar winemaker Louis Barruol makes some fine Northern Rhones as well. Importer: Country Vintners, Ashland, VA; tel. (804) 752-3670