The 1999 Hermitage Marquise de la Tourette is outstanding. It boasts 14% natural alcohol, abundant glycerin, and notes of honeysuckle mixed with fino sherry, pineapples, minerals, and a hint of acacia flowers. This is a good commercial example. The significant difference in quality between the outstanding 1999 northern Rhone vintage and the above average yet essentially correct 2000 is dramatically evidenced in Delas's wines. The 2000 red offerings reveal charming ripeness, but also the vintage's softness, lightness, and lack of depth. Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000.