This is the first offering from young Syrah vines planted by three of the northern Rhone's innovative winemakers, Francois Villard, Yves Cuilleron, and Pierre Gaillard. They are in the process of resurrecting old hillside vineyards north of Vienne (only a few miles from the northern Cote Brune sector of Cote Rotie). Made from 4-year old Syrah, the 1998 Sotanum already reveals terrific potential. A black/ruby/purple color is followed by a sumptuous bouquet of raspberry and cassis fruit, gorgeous complexity, medium to full body, refreshing acidity, and excellent precision. It should drink well for 6-7 years. ERIC SOLOMON, EUROPEAN CELLARS, 236 West 27 St., Room 801, New York, NY 10001; tel. (212) 924-4949; fax (212) 924-0567