2001 Hermitage Cuvee Emilie Blanc

The 2001 Hermitage Cuvee Emilie displays an evolved light gold color in addition to a rich, textured bouquet of rose petals intermixed with white flowers, citrus oils, and toasty, smoky new oak. More closed as well as tightly-knit, it is less evolved than the 2000 was at a similar age. The 2001 is neither profound, nor as charming as the 2000. It needs 2-3 years to round into shape, and should age nicely for 10-12 years. Jun 2003, www.robertparker.com

Bright lemony color. Musky, vibrant aromas of lemon, lime, white flowers and mint. Sweet and delicate but also quite penetrating, with citrus and spice flavors. Much more structure here than in the Crozes. This saw more new oak (50%, vs. 30% for the Crozes) but comes across as less oaky.