Michel Tardieu’s 2009 red Northern Rhone offerings still have a long wait in barrel before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. They all reveal deep colors as well as abundant concentration, structure and power. I thought the best cuvees were the Cornas, St.-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage. The Hermitage and Cornas appear capable of 15 or more years of evolution, and the Crozes-Hermitage and St.-Joseph should last at least a decade. The Cote Rotie Vieilles Vignes exhibited great fruit, but it was not a sensational wine in comparison with the other efforts. (Not yet released) Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St.-Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

This has lots of heft, with charcoal, roasted fig, espresso and dark olive paste notes all rolled together and supported by broad-shouldered tannins and lots of briar on the finish. Despite its weight, this is well-defined, with solid acidity well-embedded throughout. Should stretch out nicely in the cellar. Best from 2014 through 2024. 165 cases made, 15 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Cornas Select to Add