2003 Gigondas Hominis Fides

There are fewer than 250 cases of the 2003 Gigondas Hominis Fides, a candidate for the Gigondas of the vintage. A layered, full-bodied effort that tastes like the Valbelle on steroids, it boasts an explosive nose of blackberries, flowers, earth, licorice, violets, and minerals. This amazingly full-bodied, pure, intense wine possesses multiple layers as well as a blockbuster finish. It should drink well for 15+ years. Proprietor Louis Barruol is one of the two finest producers of Gigondas (his wines rival those of Yves Gras’ Santa Duc), and also has a burgeoning negociant operation dedicated to making tasty wines. Readers should note that the estate wines are bottled under the Chateau Saint-Cosme label, and the negociant wines, made from purchased wines or grapes, are simply called Saint-Cosme. A Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; (561) 998-0039; Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901; Associated Wine Distributors, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-8048; and Vintage ‘59 Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-9218