The 1997 Crozes-Hermitage Thalabert (a 32- day cuvaison) is made in a tannic, vin du gard style with a saturated ruby/purple color, copious cassis fruit, and notes of smoked herbs, Asian spices, and earth. Powerful and muscular, it requires 4-5 years of cellaring, and will last for 15+ years. Importer: Frederick Wildman, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700