A textbook Cotes du Rhone, the 1985 Fonsalette exhibits a healthy dark ruby color with purple nuances (more youthful looking than the 1985 Rayas), an earthy, black-raspberry-scented nose, full body, juicy, plump flavors, and a soft, robust finish. Although drinkable since bottling, it reveals no signs of fruit loss or color deterioration. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.
Imported by Martine's Wines, San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 485-1800, Wines of France, Alain Junguenet, Mountainside, NJ; tel. (908) 654-6173, and Ideal Wines, Medford, MA; tel. (617) 395-3300