The luxury cuvee, and to my taste the finest Crozes-Hermitage produced, is Chapoutier’s 500-case Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers. The 2001 Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers’ inky black/purple color is followed by a dense, roasted herb, melted licorice, black currant, cassis, and tapenade-scented bouquet. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it reveals more muscle and concentration than its older sibling. It will undoubtedly be less charming in its youth and will need some time to come around. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2019.
Stephen Tanzer: NA Robert Parker: 91-93 Wine Spectator: NA Staff: NA
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