1990 Crozes Hermitage

The regular cuvee of 1990 Crozes-Hermitage tastes like most producers' Hermitage. The sensational dark purple color is followed by a huge bouquet of roasted, black-raspberry fruit, smoky, earthy scents, and a nice touch of toasty new oak. There is mind-boggling richness in this wine, as well as extraordinary extraction, yet the underpinnings of acidity, tannin, and alcohol are there. While the soft tannins suggest it can be drunk now, it should be at its best in 2-3 years and last for 12-15. Importer: A Christopher Cannan/Europvin Selection, various importers.