Solid on all accounts, the 2011 Saint Joseph Esprit de Granit is a beautiful effort that reveals classic black currants, cassis, and raspberry intermixed with distinct minerality, crushed rock and hints of chocolate. Clean, balanced and beautifully proportioned, with medium to full-bodied texture and ample concentration, it can be enjoyed any time over the coming decade. I was blown away by this lineup, and it’s rare to find this level of consistent quality from a co-op. Part of the secret here is that, in addition to requiring long-term contracts, paying for the quality of the grapes and owning their own vineyards, they also operate a state of the art cellar that allows them to process just about any size lot they choose. This is a no-expense-spared operation and the results speak for themselves. Looking at the 2011s, all of the Hermitage releases are impressive and show the vintage nicely. Importer: OWS Imports, Karl Runge