1999 Coteaux du Vivarais Cuvee Syrare

(100% syrah, aged for 20 months in new barrels; the yield was reportedly 15 hectoliters per hectare) Saturated ruby-purple to the rim. Blackberry, violet and lead pencil on the nose, along with strong bitter chocolate and espresso notes of torrefaction. Strong oak-influenced flavors similar to the aromas. Dense, sappy and wonderfully perfumed in the mouth. Less creamy than the estate's regular Cotes du Vivarais bottling, but unusually aromatic and vibrant thanks to firm but perfectly integrated acids. Finishes with lush, sweet tannins and strong oak notes of vanilla and toast. An exceptional wine from an appellation not generally known for high quality.