A top cuvee made only in the finest vintages, the 2009 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Fleur de Confiance comes from the oldest vines and/or best lots. While this cuvee is often capable of lasting 15-20 years, the 2009 seems destined for earlier drinking given the vintage character. Sweet, caramelized red and black cherry notes intermixed with spice box, earth and pepper are followed by a high glycerin, high octane style of wine (it must tip the scales at 15+% alcohol) with lots of density, atypically simple tannins and low acidity, which give it a forward, full-bodied, plush, heady mouthfeel. Velvety, opulent and fleshy, this is a wine to drink over the next decade. The brilliant Andre Romeo and his son, Frederic, continue to be among the highest quality producers in Rasteau. A Daniel Johnnes Selection; imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300