The cuvees of 1995 Crozes-Hermitage and 1995 Crozes-Hermitage Clos des Grives exhibit opaque purple/black colors, as well as sweet noses of blackcurrants, plums, licorice, and smoke. Sweet, rich fruit, plus structure and well-integrated acidity and tannin combine for an impressive palate impression. The 1995 Clos des Grives is fuller, longer, and more extracted, with sweeter, riper fruit. Both these wines should drink well for a decade. It's about time readers discover how good these reasonably priced wines are. This talented young producer left the local cooperative in 1990 and has made a name for himself in a mere five years. His wines are expressionistic, deeply-colored, with wonderful purity, and gobs of ripe fruit. Combier is unquestionably one of the northern Rhone's up and coming stars. His winemaking philosophy is not dissimilar from that of his neighbor, Alain Graillot, one of the other talents in the northern Rhone. Importer: Langdon-Shiverick, Cleveland, OH; tel. (216) 861-6800