The outstanding 2010 Crozes-Hermitage is performing better from bottle than it did last year from barrel. Black currant, licorice, black olive and spice box aromas jump from the glass of this dense, ruby/purple-colored, medium-bodied wine. Revealing good minerality, acidity levels and sweet tannin, it can be consumed over the next decade or more. Importer: Europvin, www.europvin.com

The 2010 Crozes-Hermitage revealed lots of minerality, excellent concentration of red and black currants as well as cedar, licorice and black olive characteristics, and medium to full body. It should turn out to be a crisp, elegant Crozes with a Burgundian sensibility. (Not yet released)Importer: Europvin, www.europvin.com

Finely textured with freshness and finesse. There's intensity and purity of fruit rather than concentration. Damson and gently drying tannins. Needs food. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-2018. 15.85pts/20 (85-plus pts/100)